Concern rises over public ‘prank’ content culture in Mangaluru

Mangaluru,

The growing trend of social media prank videos and public content creation in Mangaluru has begun raising concerns among citizens, parents and social observers, particularly regarding the manner in which unsuspecting members of the public, especially young women, are being approached and filmed for online content.

Over the past few weeks, several videos circulating on Instagram and other social media platforms have sparked discussion locally. Many of these videos feature creators approaching strangers in public places for “fun interactions,” “gift challenges,” or short form entertainment content aimed at attracting online engagement and followers. While some view such content as part of modern social media culture, others believe certain incidents are crossing the line between entertainment and intrusion into personal space.

Public areas including shopping zones, streets near educational institutions and commercial centres are increasingly becoming locations for spontaneous filming and influencer style interactions. Particular concern has emerged after some videos appeared to involve young women being unexpectedly drawn into content creation without fully understanding how widely such clips may later circulate online.

Citizens have also questioned whether all participants are adequately informed or comfortable while being filmed in busy public environments. Observers say the issue is less about social media itself and more about the growing pressure among content creators to constantly produce attention grabbing material in order to remain visible online. In the race for views, likes and followers, there is a fear that sensitivity, privacy and personal boundaries may sometimes be overlooked.

 Parents and educators in the city have quietly voiced concern over the impact such trends may have on teenagers and college going youth, many of whom are active social media users. They stress the need for greater awareness about digital consent, online safety and the long term consequences of appearing in viral content without proper understanding or caution.

Several citizens have also pointed out that while prank culture may appear harmless on the surface, repeated public interactions involving cameras can make some individuals uncomfortable, particularly women who may feel pressured or caught off guard in crowded places. At the same time, many believe it is important not to sensationalise isolated incidents or unfairly generalise all content creators.

Mangaluru has a growing creative digital community, with many youngsters using social media positively for entrepreneurship, entertainment, awareness campaigns and local storytelling. Citizens say the focus should instead remain on encouraging responsible and ethical content practices. When contacted regarding the matter, police sources told News Trail that they are aware of discussions and concerns being raised around such incidents.

However, officials clarified that no formal complaints have been received so far. They added that if any affected individual approaches the department with a complaint, the matter would be examined and suitable action would be taken in accordance with the law. 

As social media influence continues to expand, residents feel this is an appropriate moment for a broader conversation about consent, responsible digital behaviour and respecting personal comfort in public spaces. While online creativity is welcome, citizens say it should always be balanced with sensitivity, dignity and accountability.