Russian Woman Changing Into Saree in Public in Turkey Sparks Outrage: Viral Video Draws Cultural Criticism

Influencer Monica Kabir’s Instagram video of donning a saree on a busy Turkish street goes viral, igniting debate on cultural respect, public decorum, and performative content.

Istanbul [Turkey], July 8 — A viral Instagram video of Russian influencer Monica Kabir changing into a saree in a crowded public area in Turkey has ignited a storm of criticism online, with viewers calling the act disrespectful and inappropriate. Shot while she was surrounded by curious onlookers — some visibly disapproving — the video shows Kabir swapping her outfit in full view, prompting a security guard to ask her to vacate the area.

---

The controversial video, captioned “Namaste Turkey” by Monica Kabir on Instagram, shows her removing a red blouse and leggings to change into a petticoat and drape a red saree, all in full public view. The influencer, reportedly based in Dhaka, filmed the stunt while visiting Turkey.

While Kabir’s intent may have been to showcase the traditional Indian attire, social media users across platforms like Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) accused her of using the saree for publicity rather than cultural appreciation. The criticism wasn’t aimed at the outfit itself, but at the way and setting in which she chose to change — on a busy street, under public gaze.

The video’s virality was followed by a wave of backlash, with many Indian users expressing concern over what they perceive as a distortion of cultural values and attention-seeking behavior.

“Wearing a saree is a good thing, but wearing it on the roads and showing it to everyone is not the right way. As an Indian woman, I am requesting that the saree be worn traditionally and as a woman,” commented one user.

Another echoed similar sentiments:

“You look no doubt very beautiful, but I am not in support of this public display. The security is right to request her to move. Why do you girls like doing such stuff in public places? It’s pretty shameful. Most of the people in your background look disgusted.”

Others condemned the act as a “publicity stunt,” with one user writing:

“Nothing but ruining your country’s reputation. Stop doing this type of weird stuff for views.”
Another bluntly said, “It’s cringe.”

Some also questioned whether such a display would be tolerated in more conservative settings or if the same influencer would attempt similar stunts in more culturally sensitive environments.

Despite the backlash, Monica Kabir has not yet issued a public response or removed the video, which continues to garner views and mixed engagement.

The incident highlights the growing friction between digital performative content and cultural sensitivity, particularly when influencers tread into cross-cultural territories for virality. It also brings to the fore the responsibilities creators have when using traditional elements from cultures they do not belong to — especially in public and foreign settings.