A comedic prank video has taken the internet by storm, leveraging the confusion surrounding Goods and Services Tax (GST) rules to entertain—and baffle—bystanders. Content creator Aryan Kataria’s imaginative take on fake GST rules has not only amused viewers but also prompted discussions about the complexity of India’s tax system.
The Viral Prank
The video, humorously titled “Telling People About Weird GST Rules,” shows Kataria approaching unsuspecting people in public spaces, informing them of absurd tax regulations. From claiming that holding a phone in the right hand incurs GST to suggesting that keeping a shirt unbuttoned attracts tax, Kataria’s scenarios are both bizarre and oddly believable to some.
In one interaction, he warns an auto-rickshaw driver that an unbuttoned shirt could result in a GST penalty, prompting the driver to hurriedly button up. In another, Kataria informs two men that walking without putting their arms around each other is subject to an 18% GST. Confused but cooperative, they comply.
While most people follow his invented rules without question, a few push back, asking for logic behind the claims. Kataria responds with wit, comparing his fictitious rules to the recent uproar over caramel popcorn’s GST rates.
Social Media Reactions
The prank video struck a chord online, with users applauding Kataria’s creativity and critiquing the gullibility of the public. “Brilliant… so innovative. It also shows the sad state of affairs,” wrote one user. Another expressed concern, stating, “The fact that people believed it is worrying.”
Context: The GST Popcorn Debate
The video’s timing coincides with the controversy over GST on caramel popcorn. The Finance Ministry had recently proposed increasing the GST rate on caramel popcorn from 5% to 18%, sparking confusion and memes under the trending hashtag #PopcornTax. While the GST Council later clarified no changes to the tax structure, the initial announcement became fodder for social media humor, inspiring Kataria’s prank.
A Reflection on Tax Awareness
Beyond its comedic value, the video sheds light on the lack of awareness and understanding of GST rules among the public. While some viewers enjoyed the humor, others noted the need for clearer communication of tax policies to avoid misinformation.
Kataria’s prank is a reminder of how creativity can highlight societal issues, even while providing a good laugh. The video continues to gain traction, proving that humor and satire remain powerful tools for sparking conversations.
Sources By Agencies