Viral: Australian traveller calls India "ahead of its time" ; here's why

Foreigners who come to explore India as tourists often applaud the nation for its warmth, cultures, traditions and the hub of rich history that the country is endowed with.This time India has once again captured global attention with its convenient train food delivery system.

'India is ahead of it's time'

Recently, Australian tourist Bec McColl went viral on Instagram after sharing her delightful experience of ordering food on a moving Indian train. Seated comfortably, holding a slice of pizza, she exclaimed, “India is so cool. I just ordered pizza and French fries on a train that is moving, and the delivery driver actually met me on the train. How sick is that? That is so cool.”She captioned the video as, “Dude, this is actually the coolest thing ever,” captured the excitement about this unique service.

A text overlay in the video stated, “India is ahead of the times when it comes to this”.

Social media reactions

The video quickly amassed over six lakh views and got a lot of admiration among Instagram users. Many applauded India’s efficient and user-friendly food delivery on trains.One user commented, “India is very very cool ..only thing foreigners need to do is keep their budget more than $20,” while another welcomed her warmly: “Welcome! We ain’t as bad as the media portrays us, spend a little, luxury is not expensive here, also ensures a bit of safety.

Happy to have you with us! Enjoy.”Another user acknowledged, “This gives me mixed feelings. On one side, I’m feeling proud by foreigner’s compliment to India. But also I know this was only possible because of cheap human labor and gross overpopulation”.

Food ordering services on trains

Indian Railways operates this advanced service through collaborations with third-party food delivery platforms like Swiggy, Zomato, and Zoop, alongwith its own official IRCTC e-catering portal.Passengers can order meals through the official IRCTC eCatering website or app by entering their PNR or train number. Freshly prepared food from FSSAI-certified restaurants located at over 450 railway stations is delivered directly to passengers’ seats at selected stations en route, ensuring freshness and hygiene. The variety ranges from regional delicacies to popular fast foods, catering to diverse tastes.

Passengers can schedule their meals

Passengers can also order in advance or in bulk, making it convenient for families and groups. The food delivery is timed precisely to match train schedules, so passengers receive their meals right at their seat even as the train moves.This service shows India’s progress in blending digital innovation with public infrastructure to enhance traveler comfort. It not only promotes ease-of-living but also shows how India is using technology to set new standards in convenience and hospitality.