The controversy began with the circulation of a shaky, vertical smartphone video—often forwarded via WhatsApp before jumping to mainstream platforms like Facebook and Instagram. The footage, purportedly filmed in a residential neighborhood of South Kolkata, depicted two individuals (identified by social media users as Joyita and Banani) in a moment of either high-tension confrontation or intense personal intimacy. Key characteristics of the initial "viral" moment included:
Many viewers condemned Banani’s approach, arguing that regardless of the dispute's merit, the verbal treatment of the driver was unacceptable. This group highlighted the importance of showing respect to service providers and criticized what they perceived as "entitled" behavior. The controversy began with the circulation of a
" neighborhood in nearby Dhaka, Bangladesh, which often sees its own local social media trends. Within Kolkata, "Banani" may refer to specific local businesses or residential complexes. Why you might be seeing "Viral" tags This group highlighted the importance of showing respect
However, others have also pointed out that social media can also be a double-edged sword, which can be used to bully and harass individuals, often without any basis or evidence. Many have called for greater responsibility and accountability on social media platforms, citing that they have a significant role to play in regulating and monitoring online content. Why you might be seeing "Viral" tags However,
Spreading or seeking non-consensual private media (whether real or claimed to be real) causes serious harm and is a violation of platform policies as well as the law in many places, including India under the IT Act and criminal statutes.