A disturbing incident involving New Zealand-based YouTuber Karl Rock at Pune’s historic Sinhagad Fort has sparked widespread outrage across Maharashtra. A group of young men was caught on video misbehaving with the popular travel vlogger under the guise of teaching him Marathi. The video, which has gone viral on social media, shows the foreign visitor being taught abusive and vulgar phrases, which he was then compelled to repeat, unknowingly offending local sensibilities. Citizens across the state have condemned the behavior, calling it a disgrace to Maharashtra’s cultural values and tradition of hospitality.
The incident has not only tarnished the state’s image but also raised concerns over the safety and dignity of foreign tourists. Several individuals have filed complaints with the Haveli Police Station, demanding swift and strict action against those responsible.
Watch the video here:
Karl Rock, known for his insightful videos about Indian culture, travel safety, and scam awareness, has been a beloved figure among Indian audiences. Having first visited the country in 2013, he has explored every Indian state and union territory, along with neighboring countries like Pakistan and Bangladesh. He is currently touring Pune as part of his ongoing travel series.
Locals and cultural commentators have expressed dismay over the misconduct at Sinhagad Fort, a site of historical and cultural significance. “Spreading vulgarity at a place like Sinhagad is disgraceful,” said one resident. “It reflects poorly on the state’s identity and our value of Atithi Devo Bhava—the belief that guests are akin to God.”
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In response, the Haveli Police have acknowledged the incident and confirmed that efforts are underway to identify the individuals seen in the video. Authorities have assured the public that appropriate action will be taken to uphold Maharashtra’s cultural dignity and ensure such incidents are not repeated. As the video continues to circulate online, many are calling for greater awareness and accountability to preserve the state's reputation and ensure a welcoming environment for all visitors.