Bride Smokes On Camera, Internet Calls Her Unnecessarily 'Woke'

A recent video of a bride smoking at her in-laws’ house has gone viral, capturing significant public attention. The clip shows the woman, dressed in her bridal attire, smoking a cigarette inside a room, presumably in her in-laws’ home. When her husband unexpectedly enters the room, she hurriedly disposes of the cigarette and nervously opens the door, ending the video.

The video was shared by Seema Meena, a social media influencer with around 59.8 thousand followers. Known for creating such content, she posted the clip on her Instagram account, where it quickly garnered about 3.9 million views. The video was shared by 148 thousand users, received 109 thousand likes, and attracted 1,948 comments.

The reactions in the comments section were polarized. Many viewers expressed strong disapproval, criticizing the bride for smoking and questioning how a woman could engage in such behaviour, especially within the confines of her in-laws’ house. These responses reflect the traditional Indian cultural norms, particularly in rural areas where smoking by women is considered taboo. The sight of a woman smoking can be shocking and unacceptable to many, reinforcing deep-seated gender norms and expectations.

Conversely, some viewers defended the bride’s right to express herself, arguing that personal freedom should extend to women as well. These supporters highlighted the need for societal progress and the dismantling of outdated gender norms that restrict women’s behaviours and choices.

As the video continues to circulate online, it remains uncertain how the bride’s family will react to the situation and whether it will lead to any changes in the household dynamics. This incident underscores the evolving nature of societal norms in India and the varied responses they elicit. The widespread attention to the video highlights the ongoing tension between traditional cultural values and modern individual expressions, revealing a society grappling with change and the redefinition of gender roles.

Ultimately, the video serves as a microcosm of broader societal debates about women’s rights, personal freedom, and cultural norms, illustrating the complex and often contentious path toward gender equality in contemporary India.