One of the highlights was a performance by Rihanna
Viral moments ruled 2024 in India.
They transformed ordinary events and extraordinary achievements into internet sensations that captured the world’s imagination.
From heartwarming stories in small villages to dazzling displays of global recognition, these moments united millions, sparked conversations, and even brought about a few laughs along the way.
Whether it was a 10-year-old’s dream bowling her way to fame or a billionaire’s lavish celebrations breaking the internet, 2024 was a year where India’s spirit and stories went viral like never before.
Here are five unforgettable moments that had everyone talking!
The Ambani Wedding
Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant’s wedding celebrations were one of India’s biggest events of 2024, mainly due to its grandeur.
The extravaganza began making headlines in March when some of the world’s most influential figures travelled to Jamnagar in Gujarat for a three-day pre-wedding.
One of the highlights was a performance by Rihanna, marking her debut appearance in India.
In the months leading up to the wedding, the festivities reached new heights with star-studded performances by global icons including the Backstreet Boys, Katy Perry, Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli, and Justin Bieber.
The guest list was equally illustrious, featuring Mark Zuckerberg Bill Gates, reality star Kim Kardashian, ex-Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Shah Rukh Khan among hundreds of other VIPs.
Bill Gates enjoys Chai with Dolly Chaiwala
Tea vendor Dolly Chaiwala became a viral sensation when he served a cup of tea to Bill Gates.
Known for his vibrant social media presence and unique style of preparing tea, Dolly had already carved a niche for himself.
However, his encounter with Gates catapulted him to global fame.
A video capturing the moment has over 176 million views on Bill Gates’ Instagram page.
The Microsoft co-founder captioned the post:
“In India, you can find innovation everywhere you turn—even in the preparation of a simple cup of tea.”
Dolly admitted that he didn’t know he was serving tea to one of the world’s richest men:
“I didn’t know at all. I just thought he was another foreign tourist, and I served him tea as I always do.”
Sachin Tendulkar spots a New Bowling Star Online
A heartwarming viral moment saw 10-year-old Sushila Meena become an overnight sensation when Sachin Tendulkar shared a video of her bowling on X.
The video, originally posted on Instagram by her school teacher, captured Sushila bowling in slow motion on a makeshift cricket pitch in her village.
Tendulkar praised her talent, describing her bowling action as “smooth, effortless, and lovely to watch!”
He even noted a resemblance to former India bowler Zaheer Khan, who later agreed with Tendulkar’s observation.
Inspired by her potential, several former cricketers have now stepped forward to support Sushila in pursuing her dream of playing for India.
Gukesh Dommaraju becomes Chess Champion
India erupted in celebration as 18-year-old Gukesh Dommaraju defeated China’s Ding Liren to become the youngest world chess champion in history.
Dommaraju shattered a decades-old record held by Russian grandmaster Garry Kasparov, who claimed the title at age 22 in 1985.
The 14-game World Championship captivated India, drawing an intensity usually reserved for cricket.
Fans rejoiced when a critical blunder by Liren secured Dommaraju’s victory.
Overwhelmed with emotion, the teenager burst into tears as his historic win was announced, and the room exploded in cheers.
A video capturing his tearful reaction quickly went viral, touching hearts worldwide.
Caramel Popcorn
According to India’s Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council, which sets the tax rates for various products, caramel popcorn is unlike any other popcorn.
The council ruled that while non-branded popcorn mixed with salt and spices would be taxed at 5%, caramel popcorn—classified as a sugar confectionery—would face a steep 18% tax.
India’s Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, explained that the added sugar made caramel popcorn akin to a mithai, justifying its placement in a higher tax bracket than regular popcorn.
The decision sparked backlash, with Indians ridiculing the move through memes and sharp criticism.
Instagram influencer Orry joked that caramel popcorn was “injurious to financial health” while Congress party spokesperson Jairam Ramesh called the three tax slabs for popcorn “absurd”.
He added that it highlighted the increasing complexity of a system initially meant to be a “Good and Simple Tax”.
As 2024 ends, India proved once again that its stories have the power to captivate the world.
These viral moments not only entertained but also highlighted the country’s talent, innovation, and cultural vibrancy.
As we look back on these moments, we can’t help but wonder: what new stories will capture our hearts and screens in the year to come?
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