By News18,Sahas Mahapatra

Copyright news18

An Indian-origin creator sparked a buzz online after describing a part of Melbourne’s west as “100% Indian.” The New Zealand-based food and travel vlogger shared a series of photos on Facebook highlighting numerous Indian-owned shops in the suburb of Truganina. In his post, he praised the area for its vibrant atmosphere, saying it felt just like being in India.
“This is not a small-scale India. This is India in its entirety, situated in Melbourne West, with a population comprised entirely of Indian communities,” he wrote in the post. He went on to explain that a short 100-metre walk in the area would lead one to multiple Indian restaurants, paan shops, dessert parlours and whatnot. He even suggested that Indian entrepreneurs living in Auckland, New Zealand, can consider moving to the suburb for better business opportunities.
Man Says These Restaurants Are Doing Good Business Because Of “100% Indian” Community
He added, “The standout feature is that all these restaurants are faring well, thanks to their positioning within a community that is 100% Indian. Entrepreneurs based in Auckland may want to consider launching a branch in Melbourne West, as the costs of doing so are lower than in Auckland.” In the pictures, he was seen taking selfies while standing in front of these Indian establishments.

The Vlogger’s Post Sparks Debate Online
His post immediately drew attention online and sparked debate, with many criticising him for his “segregation” comment. The vlogger’s post was reshared on a Facebook group, where one user said, “Everything is okay apart from these paan shops. Please don’t start here as well, I saw too many fellow Indians eating paan and doing the same thing they used to do back home. Stains on their cars, around their houses.”
Another added, “Imagine moving to a country where the people who come from all around the world are already there, welcome you, allow you to practice your culture, and all we ask in return is for a bit of basic respect and assimilation, and you make a point of segregating yourself and looking down on those same people… wild.”
Someone else mentioned, “We have left India for a reason. Having more of that Indianness is a step down, not a step up. Check the rubbish around these shops, the driving and parking habits of desi people. People drive in the wrong lanes, speed, and do stupid things. Nothing to brag about its lowering of the standard.”
“Now I know why there is an anti-Indian feeling. There is nothing to be proud of this. Paan should be banned. This is not the right attitude. If you are here, respect the culture and integrate. If you want 100% Indian, guys, why did you come here? Surprise to see the attitude of some of the people,” another individual commented.
Despite the backlash, the vlogger continued his journey in Melbourne, visiting various Indian restaurants and supermarkets.