Helsinki, Finland: A social media user recently shared his dissatisfaction on X (formerly Twitter), criticizing the perceived lack of civic sense among some Indians abroad. The now-viral post describes an incident during a train journey from Lapland to Helsinki in Finland, where a family disturbed the peaceful atmosphere by speaking loudly.
Gokul (@gokulns), the user who posted about the experience, described the train carriage as "extremely quiet" until the family began a video call in Hindi, leaving their cabin doors open. Frustrated, Gokul remarked, "We really don't understand civic sense, do we?"
His post read:
I'm on a train traveling from Lapland to Helsinki, and in this otherwise quiet carriage, there's one family making quite a bit of noise. They're on a video call, speaking in Hindi, with their cabin doors wide open. It's a reminder of how much we struggle with civic sense."
The post sparked widespread debate, with opinions sharply divided.
I'm on a train from Lapland to Helsinki and there's one family in the otherwise ULTRA QUIET carriage that's being very loud, talking to someone over a video call. In Hindi. With their cabin doors open.
— Gokul ⚡️ (@gokulns) December 23, 2024
We REALLY don't get civic sense, do we?
Support for Gokul’s Observation
Many users supported Gokul’s view, sharing similar experiences. One commenter noted, "This is common in London too—it leaves a bad impression." Another added, "Indians are often associated with noise, whether it’s festivals or casual conversations. It’s a pattern."
Criticism of Gokul’s Approach
Others, however, criticized Gokul for not addressing the issue directly. "Why not politely ask them to lower their voices or close the door?" one user suggested. Someone else remarked, "Sharing this online instead of addressing the issue directly doesn’t solve anything."
Broader Perspectives
Some defended Indians, pointing out that noisy behavior is not unique to any nationality. A user argued, "Do you call out others for similar behavior, or is this criticism reserved for Indians? Try riding the London Underground on a weekend night—it’s hardly quiet."
The post continues to fuel discussions, highlighting broader debates about cultural norms, public behavior, and perceptions of civic responsibility.
