Foreign woman mobbed for selfies at Mumbai’s Gateway of India; outrage erupts after video goes viral: ‘Such men are international embarrassment’

Despite the discomfort, the woman manages to stay calm. Towards the end of the clip, she says, “Rs 100 per photo,” a line many online saw as both a clever deflection and a subtle protest against the invasion of her space.

Watch the video:

अमेरिका ने कुछ दिन पहले महिलाओं के लिए ट्रैवल एडवाइज़री जारी किया था कि भारत में अकेले घूमने ना जाएं, वरना हिंसा और बलात्कार हो सकता है 🚨🚨

देखिए कैसे विदेशी महिला पर्यटकों के कंधे पर हाथ रख कर सेल्फी ले रहे हैं जैसे ख़ुद की पत्नी हो 😡😡 pic.twitter.com/5PQwGYeXG1

— Saral Vyangya (@SaralVyangya) July 27, 2025

The video has triggered widespread outrage across social media, with users calling out men’s behaviour as shameful and deeply disrespectful. Many noted that while the incident didn’t turn violent, it highlighted just how intimidating and violating such situations can feel, especially for solo travellers.

At this point, it’s unclear when the video was filmed, and there’s been no official response or action taken against those involved.

A user wrote, “Because of people like these the country is getting a bad name.” Another user wrote, “It is disrespectful, so bad. How we behave like this.”

A third person recommended, “I think government should provide security to all foreign at the tourist place so their safety can be maintain.” A fourth individual wrote, “Such men are International embarrassment.”

Just weeks after the US State Department issued a fresh travel advisory for India, a viral video has reignited concerns around safety for tourists. The Level-2 advisory, released on June 16, urges American travelers to “exercise increased caution” while visiting India, citing a spike in crimes and the persistent threat of terrorism.

#US issues Level-2 travel advisory for #India, citing crime & #terror risks. pic.twitter.com/1XHvBWMge8

— IDU (@defencealerts) June 22, 2025

According to the advisory, violent incidents, including sexual assault, are on the rise, particularly in busy public places like tourist hotspots, markets, and transportation centres. It notes that “rape is one of the fastest-growing crimes in India,” adding that potential terror attacks could happen with little or no warning.

Travellers, especially women, are being urged not to venture out alone, to stay alert in public spaces, and to keep up with local news. The State Department also recommends that US citizens register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and stay connected with nearby embassies or consulates during their stay.