Instagram Reels Craze Leads to Dangerous Stunts on Highways
The popularity of Instagram Reels in India is soaring, attracting not just youngsters but also many middle-aged users. However, in the race for likes and shares, some individuals are crossing dangerous boundaries.
Woman Performs Stunt with Gun on Kanpur Highway
In a recent viral incident from Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, a woman was seen dancing with a gun on a highway. The video, reportedly created for an Instagram reel, quickly spread across social media.
In the video, the woman, dressed in a green saree and blouse, can be seen dancing to a Bhojpuri song on what is believed to be the Kanpur-Delhi Highway. The video, shared on platform X (formerly Twitter), alarmed many users, who tagged the police and demanded strict action for displaying a firearm so openly in public.
View the report: Watch Video Here
Who Is She?
The woman in the video has been identified as Shalini, who operates the Instagram account @salinipanday60. She has over 60,000 followers and more than 2,550 posts.
After the video went viral, Kanpur Police confirmed that the incident occurred within their district and assured the public that appropriate action was being taken. In response, the police stated:
“The said woman is a resident of Kanpur Nagar, and the video was recorded within Kanpur district limits. The matter is under review.”
Not the First Time in Uttar Pradesh
This isn’t the first time such an incident has occurred. In 2024, another viral video showed YouTuber Simran Yadav dancing with a pistol on a highway in Lucknow.
The video received widespread criticism for breaking public safety norms and disrespecting legal conduct. Following the backlash, Lucknow Police acknowledged the issue and said that action was being initiated.
Authorities Responding
In both cases, social media users tagged senior police officials and public authorities, demanding action. The police have assured the public that these incidents are being investigated and that proper legal measures will be taken.
Growing Concern
These events raise concerns about how far people are willing to go for internet fame. While social media platforms are meant for creativity and self-expression, such reckless acts pose serious safety and legal risks — not just to the individuals involved, but also to the general public.
Authorities are urging users to exercise caution and behave responsibly while creating content, especially in public spaces.
