A Polish travel vlogger has stirred controversy online after posting a video that shows piles of garbage in the Yamuna River just behind India's iconic Taj Mahal. The reel was uploaded on June 30 by Instagram user @podroznikdowynajecia. It captured the lesser-seen side of the famed heritage site, but it's the traveller's commentary that has truly divided the internet.
Check video below:
What the video shows
In the video, the Polish tourist walks along the riverbank behind the Taj Mahal, showcasing plastic waste and garbage piled up along the Yamuna. The visuals also revealed statements like, “The real India.” “It stinks worse than in Chennai.”
The caption attached to the post stated, “The video was made to show how the back of the Taj Mahal looks like. WE WOULD LIKE TO SAY THAT INDIA IS A GREAT COUNTRY! We would never think to hate this great part of the world. THERE ARE MANY CLEAN AND BEAUTIFUL PLACES. We are planning to return here again in the near future. Videos from this better side of India will be released anytime soon ❤️”
Internet reacts
The post quickly went viral, triggering a flurry of reactions from viewers across the world. Some users praised the video for showing a less polished but important reality.
A user wrote, “Good job revealing the truth!” Other comments expressed, “Thank you for showing everyone the real Taj Mahal.” and "Imagine having so little respect for your country that the biggest man-made attraction is surrounded with waste and stinks.”
However, many others defended India, questioning the intent behind the video and calling it a case of selective portrayal for social media clout:
“This is just one of India’s issues like any other country, but NOT the real India. The real India is our culture, hospitality, and spiritual depth.”
“I don’t understand the point of this video. The garbage area is outside the tourist premises. Why would you visit a dump and act surprised?”
“India isn’t perfect, but videos like this that prompt racist comments and stereotyping don’t help anyone.”
Another user offered a detailed reflection on heritage and responsibility, writing: “Having travelled across Europe… I can confidently say that Indian architecture—its scale, intricacy, and spiritual depth—is unmatched. But our neglect is visible. Preservation is a reflection of national pride. Foreigners showing more respect than we do should be a wake-up call.”
