Prank Using Indigenous-Looking Man’s Video Sparks Racism Debate: ‘It Is Mean’ – News18

Last Updated:January 28, 2025, 7:00 p.m.

A social media prank gaining traction involves using a clip of a indigenous-looking man during a video call to trick the person on the other end.

Pranks are often seen as a source of humour and a way to lighten the mood. But a prank which has gained momentum on social media recently has sparked widespread debate for all the wrong reasons. The viral prank in question involves tricking someone during a video call by pointing the camera at a YouTube clip featuring an indigenous-looking man. The unsuspecting person on the other side is left bewildered, often thinking they are seeing a stranger live on their screen. Reactions range from shock to laughter once they realise it was all staged. Videos of this prank have been widely shared, earning millions of views.

While some find this trend harmless and entertaining, its growing popularity on platforms like TikTok and Instagram has also raised serious concerns. The joke has been criticised for being offensive and inappropriate. There is a video where a young woman pranked her mother using the clip. It has gone viral on X as it garnered over 16 million views.

In the comment section of this particular video, many social media users argued that the prank is rooted in racial insensitivity as it relies on mocking the appearance of an indigenous-looking man likely without his knowledge or consent.

One user expressed, “This TikTok trend is racist btw. And everyone who participated is disgusting.”

Another added, “I get the joke. I just don’t like that they are using a POC. It’s a little weird and has a racist undertone.”

Some called out the cruelty of the trend with a person commenting, “Not a fan of this trend, it’s actually mean. Making a mockery of someone’s features is in bad taste.”

“Wowww another trend where white people are racist! So funny,” someone remarked while another said, “This is so racist, I don’t get how it has become a trend in big big 2025.”

Many comments echoed similar sentiments calling the trend “heavily racist” and “low-key offensive.”

One user took a sarcastic approach in their criticism, writing, “Let’s all laugh at this indigenous man who’s literally doing nothing and use him for pranks.”

“I know I’m ‘too’ woke because this prank is just not funny to me,” an individual shared.

A TikTok creator described the prank as “dehumanising,” adding, “It just exposes another aspect of how indigenous people are always vilified.”

Location :

Delhi, India, India