Vadodara: A video showing an NRI couple engaging in a kiss at the United Way Garba ground on Thursday night went viral on social media, triggering widespread outrage. The couple’s inappropriate behavior at a venue dedicated to Mataji’s worship sparked public anger.

Following the incident, Atladra Police traced the couple, who are Australian nationals of Indian origin, and brought them to the police station. There, they issued a written apology for their conduct and were subsequently released. The couple is scheduled to fly back to Australia today.

The United Way Garba, held at Kalali ground, is internationally renowned and attracts an average of 30,000–35,000 participants daily. The viral video showed the man lifting his partner and kissing her on the garba ground, prompting immediate public condemnation. Several locals filed complaints with Atladra Police, which led to the couple’s summons.

PI M.R. Sangada stated that the couple is legally married. The man, Pratik Patel, hails from Manjalpur, while his wife is from Anand. The couple has two children and has been residing in Melbourne, Australia, for the past 16 years. They had come to Vadodara to meet Pratik’s parents and participate in the garba.

Meanwhile, more videos have emerged suggesting that the same couple had engaged in similar acts at last year’s United Way Garba and near the Gateway of India in Mumbai. DeshGujarat