American Tourist’s Generous Offer to Mumbai Shoe Polisher Goes Viral
In a heartwarming encounter captured on video, an American tourist in Mumbai offered a staggering Rs 2,000 to a local shoe polisher who had requested just Rs 10 for his services. The incident, which unfolded on the bustling streets of the city. The footage, uploaded on April 1, 2025, has since amassed over 1.2 million views, sparking widespread curiosity and conversation.
The tourist explained that he lacked smaller denominations and only had a Rs 2,000 note on hand. In the clip, he can be heard saying, “I don’t have change, this is all I have,” as he handed over the large bill. The shoe polisher, visibly taken aback by the unexpected gesture, hesitated before accepting the payment. The video shows the tourist insisting, “Please take it, I don’t need the change,” highlighting his intent to help despite the significant overpayment.
The interaction took place outside a McDonald’s outlet, where the tourist had initially approached the shoe polisher for a quick shine. After the service, the polisher quoted his modest fee of Rs 10, making the tourist’s response all the more surprising. The video ends with the shoe polisher reluctantly pocketing the Rs 2,000, still appearing stunned by the turn of events.
Social media reactions to the clip were mixed but lively. Some viewers praised the tourist’s generosity, with one commenter noting, “Such a kind gesture restores faith in humanity.” Others, however, speculated about his motives, with a user questioning, “Was this for real or just for the camera?” Regardless of intent, the exchange has shone a spotlight on a fleeting yet memorable moment of cross-cultural kindness in Mumbai.