As the Maratha quota agitation in Mumbai stretches on, a series of viral videos have raised eyebrows over how some protestors are spending their time. Clips from the protest site show men wrestling, playing outdoor games and drawing crowds who cheer them on.
छत्रपती शिवाजी महाराज टर्मिनस..❤️🚩
— Mahesh Andhale Official (@OfficialAndhal1) August 31, 2025
एक मराठा कोटी मराठा..#MarathaReservation #MarathaInmumbai #OBCमधूनच_मराठा_आरक्षण #Mumbailocal #मराठा_आरक्षण #मनोज_जरांगे_पाटील pic.twitter.com/RpmeSfQFsS
Dancing and Cheering on Streets
In several videos, groups of protestors can be seen dancing on the roads to the beat of traditional dhols. Others are caught on camera cheering and waving, with little sign of restraint despite the seriousness of the ongoing agitation.
On the Railway Tracks
One video shows protestors standing on railway tracks, waving at cameras and shouting. The clip has triggered criticism online, with many pointing out the risks involved and the disruption to public life.
मराठा ना थकत असतो ना झुकत असतो
— Amol Aswale (@AmolAswale7) August 31, 2025
दिवस 3रा तरीही तीच ऊर्जा तोच जोश.. 🫡⛳#MarathaReservation #MarathaInMumbai #OBCमधूनच_मराठा_आरक्षण pic.twitter.com/wl09Dn3wsy
Core Demands Overshadowed
While Maratha leader Manoj Jarange Patil continues his indefinite hunger strike at Azad Maidan, pressing for reservation, the viral videos have shifted public attention. Instead of focusing on the demands, much of the conversation online now revolves around the antics of protestors, ranging from street dances to wrestling bouts.
Mumbai, Maharashtra: As the protest for Maratha reservation continues, activists stop vehicles and perform stunts in the middle of the road pic.twitter.com/47XVL5cbbV
— IANS (@ians_india) September 1, 2025
Concerns Raised
Observers have noted that such behaviour risks undermining the seriousness of the protest. What began as a movement built on hunger strikes and sit-ins is now being viewed through the lens of viral clips showing games, dancing and spectacle. With Jarange’s health under watch and the agitation intensifying, these images have cast a different light on the protest.
You may also like
'I was told my cancer was terminal nine years ago, but that is not the end'
Love Island's Millie Court and Liam Reardon face 'real financial blow' after split
SC asks Centre to frame policy against foreign accused jumping bail
Festive demand, policy changes drove UPI to record high in August: Report
Newly promoted manager realises his job has turned into a 'babysitter' for adults and punching bag combo pack