“Most awkward moment”: British tourists faced Kerala women questioning colonial-era treasures

A casual day in Kerala has unexpectedly turned into a viral talking point about history, justice, and colonial memory. A clip showing a group of local women confronting two British tourists about Britain’s looting of India during colonial rule has spread rapidly across social media, prompting fresh discussions on reparations and the legacy of the empire.A chance encounter that became a history lessonThe video, filmed by one of the tourists, shows two British travellers– Emma and her partner– being approached by local women while exploring Kerala. What began as a friendly chat took an unexpected turn when the conversation shifted to Britain’s colonial past.Watch the video here:

One of the women can be heard saying, “English people have looted us, the Indians. When will you give it back to us?” Another joins in, adding, “Treasure, black pepper, everything.

And the Kohinoor diamond, which is precious and rarest diamond. They have looted from here.”Caught off guard, the couple tried to respond with humour, saying, “We’ll speak to King Charles and let you know. You will have to speak to my ancestors.”Tourists call it “awkward but eye-opening”Later, Emma shared the clip on Instagram, describing the exchange as one of the most awkward yet thought-provoking experiences of her travels.“We were just standing there in Kerala when this lady asked where we were from, and the second we said England, she started telling us how the British looted India– the jewels, the spices, everything,” she wrote.

“It was honestly one of the most awkward moments we’ve ever had while travelling.”She added that while the conversation caught them by surprise, she understood the sentiment behind it. “We know where that anger comes from, though, and we completely get it. What happened during colonial times was awful, and the more we travel, the more we realise how long the shadows of colonialism still are.”Social media reacts with mixed opinionsThe short video has sparked a wave of reactions online, with users debating whether such confrontations are fair or necessary. Many praised the Kerala women for speaking openly about historical injustice, while others empathised with the tourists’ discomfort.One user commented, “She’s 100% right. The British Museum is a trophy cabinet for stolen colonial trophies.” Another wrote, “You know, we know, say sorry and move on.”Disclaimer: This article is based on a viral video and public comments shared on social media. The Times of India has not independently verified the authenticity of the video, and the content does not necessarily represent the thoughts or opinions of the publication.Thumb image: Instagram/@discoverwithemma_