India very bad: Indian tourist faces racism at Thailand restaurant, calls cops

An Indian tourist alleged facing racism at a restaurant in Ao Nang, Krabi in Thailand after a disagreement over a bill reportedly escalated into verbal abuse, prompting him to call the police.

The incident was shared by travel vlogger Sumo on Instagram. In the video, a staff member at the restaurant was seen shouting during the altercation, with the situation intensifying as the clip began. At one point, a remark saying “India very bad” could be heard, which the vlogger cited as an example of the alleged racism he faced.

Turning the camera towards himself, Sumo explained the gravity of the situation, saying, “So we literally had to call the police just to sort this out,” adding that it was the first time he had experienced racism in Thailand. He also addressed the common perception around such incidents, stating, “Sometimes people are like, you must’ve done something, that’s why they are being racist. But firstly, no, this is not the case this time.”

Watch the video here:

After the clip gained traction and received mixed reactions online, Sumo posted a follow-up video to provide full context.

In the second clip, he explained that the issue began with a minor confusion over the bill during breakfast, saying, “I ordered breakfast, there was a small confusion on the bill when they called someone to help with the translation, this lady came.”

According to him, the situation escalated after he revealed his nationality. “She asked where I was from. The moment I said India, it turned into accusations and generalisations about Indians not wanting to pay,” he said.

Sumo clarified that the amount in question was minimal, adding, “Now, the bill was just 120 baht. It was never about the money.” Instead of arguing, he chose to handle it calmly, stating, “I chose not to argue but instead called the tourist police to handle the situation.”

He further shared that the matter was eventually resolved, with authorities understanding his side and the restaurant manager issuing an apology.

Reflecting on the broader issue, he said, “Generalising an entire group of people is never justified,” adding that while he has seen prejudice in India as well, that does not make it acceptable anywhere.

He also expressed disappointment at the online discourse following his video, mentioning, “What’s more disappointing is seeing Indians in the comments putting down their own people or supporting that behaviour.” Urging viewers to take a stand, he added, “If you see racism happening, just speak up. No situation ever justifies it.”

Watch the follow-up video here:

Despite the clarification, the incident yet again triggered a divided response on social media.

Some users expressed support for the vlogger, calling the experience unfortunate and emphasising that such incidents could happen in any part of the world.

Others questioned the situation, speculating whether there might have been more to the exchange and bringing up broader stereotypes around tourists and behaviour abroad.

The discussion also sparked introspection among viewers, with some echoing his point about the dangers of generalising entire communities and the need to call out racism consistently.

Beyond the incident itself, the video has added to ongoing conversations around racism, cultural misunderstandings, and the challenges of navigating interactions in unfamiliar environments.