**Gujaratis Urged to Embrace Social Etiquette Amid Controversy**
In a recent viral video, Monk Entertainment CEO Viraj Sheth criticized Gujarati actor Hitesh Thakkar for his behavior at the airport, suggesting that the Gujarati community needs to improve its social etiquette. The video shows Thakkar sitting on the floor of Surat airport, enjoying khaman—a traditional Gujarati dish—with friends while expressing pride in his cultural roots.
Sheth shared the video on social media, emphasizing that Gujaratis have the resources to learn proper social cues. He stated, “Gujaratis need to learn social etiquette and cues. We have the means and resources to learn it.” He encouraged the community to step out of their comfort zones, asserting that they possess the qualities necessary to represent India on a global stage.
“Get out of your comfort zone and stop shoving terrible manners under the garb of being rooted. We have the business acumen, the street-smarts, and the work ethic to represent India at a global stage,” Sheth remarked. As a member of the Gujarati community himself, he urged his peers to explore diverse cuisines while traveling abroad and to broaden their horizons.
“Stop eating only Gujarati food when you travel abroad. Experience different cultures, cuisines, and traditions. Open your mind. Dress well. Speak well. Interact with people from all countries,” he advised. Sheth further criticized the notion of being overly proud of one’s roots to the point of insecurity, stating, “Don’t fall for this ‘be proud of your roots’ mentality. You can be proud of your roots without having to flaunt them everywhere.”
The comments have sparked a lively debate online, with some supporting Sheth’s perspective while others defended Thakkar’s actions. One user noted, “We Gujaratis have a superiority complex, especially regarding food. It’s hard to change this mindset in our generation.” Another suggested that public behavior should be regulated to maintain decorum in shared spaces.
Conversely, some users questioned the criticism, asking, “What’s wrong with sitting on the floor and enjoying delicious dhoklas?” Another pointed out that the need for improved manners extends beyond Gujaratis, stating, “Indians in general need to learn etiquette and cues.”
In the video, Thakkar was seen enjoying khaman on newspapers at the airport before heading to Pattaya, Thailand, highlighting a cultural moment that has ignited discussions about tradition and modern social norms.
**FAQ**
**Q: Why did Viraj Sheth criticize Hitesh Thakkar’s behavior?**
A: Viraj Sheth criticized Hitesh Thakkar for his public eating habits at the airport, suggesting that the Gujarati community needs to improve its social etiquette and embrace broader cultural experiences.