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Indian steel thaali becomes “chic chrome plate” in viral Reel and desi internet has thoughts
The “chrome plate” featured in Amanda Monsen’s Reel drew mixed reactions from Indian viewers who recognised the familiar steel thaali.
The humble steel thaali has long been a staple in Indian kitchens. But when an American influencer recently discovered one and dubbed it a “cute chrome find”, the desi internet had plenty to say.
On August 18, influencer Amanda Monsen shared an Instagram Reel from an IKEA shopping trip, where she said she was on the hunt for “chrome stuff”. Among her finds were what she described as “chrome plates”, which she had spotted on her For You page online. The reel has fetched more than a million views.
Influencer calls an Indian steel thaali a chrome plate
In the video, Monsen said she thought the plates were “so chic” because they “make food and everything look so good”. The $7.99 IKEA find, she suggested, could also work as “a really cute perfume tray” or a stylish way to serve food.
There was just one problem for Indian viewers: the “chrome plate” looked very familiar.
Desi internet has thoughts
The reel quickly gained a million views with many viewers exclaiming that the ‘chrome plate’ was actually a steel thaali commonly used in Indian households.
One user commented, “Gentrifying stainless steel??? When will they stop stealing??” Another wrote “Is this some kinda ragebait?” A third commented “y’all really find everyday Indian things fascinating, first that scandinavian scarf now chrome plates.”
One commenter joked “Engrave your name on it and voila, your kitchen is 100% Indian.” Another remarked “MY CULTURE IS NOT YOUR COSTUME.”
(Written by Haripriya)
