BENGALURU: In yet another case of social media antics gone too far, a young man in Bengaluru has been arrested for filming a viral ‘Chai Reel’ while sitting in the middle of a busy road. The video, meant to showcase his creativity, ended up attracting police attention and landed him behind bars.
The incident occurred on April 12 on Magadi Road, one of the city’s busiest stretches. The man placed a chair in the middle of the traffic lane, sat down casually, and sipped tea while someone filmed him. He later uploaded the video to Instagram, where it quickly went viral.
However, what won him likes on social media also drew the attention of the police. Acting swiftly, the authorities identified the individual through the video and arrested him for causing public nuisance and obstructing traffic. He is now in jail.
Bengaluru Police issued a strong statement on social media, warning that such reckless behaviour would not be tolerated. “If you drink tea sitting in the middle of a traffic lane, you will get fined—not fame,” the police posted on X (formerly Twitter), reminding citizens that law enforcement is closely monitoring such violations.
They also warned that disruptive stunts for social media clout are punishable offences and urged the public to act responsibly.
Taking tea time to the traffic line will brew you a hefty fine, not fame !!! BEWARE BCP is watching you#police #awareness #weserveandprotect #stayvigilant pic.twitter.com/5A8aCJuuNc
— ಬೆಂಗಳೂರು ನಗರ ಪೊಲೀಸ್ BengaluruCityPolice (@BlrCityPolice) April 17, 2025