**NRI Couple Apologizes for Garba Kiss, Leaves India After Backlash**
*By Snehil Singh | Sep 29, 2025 05:27 pm*
An Indian-origin couple, Pratik Patel and his wife, have issued an apology after a video of them kissing at a Garba event in Vadodara, Gujarat, went viral and sparked widespread backlash.
The incident occurred during the Navratri festivities at the United Way Garba held in the Kalali area. The couple, who have been living in Australia for several years, were visiting India to meet family and participate in the celebrations.
### Public Backlash and Complaint Filed
The video of the couple sharing a kiss at the Garba event drew criticism on social media and condemnation from religious groups. The Sanatan Sant Samiti demanded action against the couple, citing that their behavior was disrespectful.
As a result, advocate Bhavin Vyas filed a complaint at the Atladara Police Station alleging that the couple’s actions hurt religious sentiments.
### Apology and Departure
Following the complaint, Pratik Patel and his wife were summoned to the police station, where they submitted a written apology. They expressed regret, acknowledging that their behavior was inappropriate for what they described as a “sacred site during Navratri.”
According to a police inspector quoted by Livemint, the couple has been married for 16 years and have two children. They hail originally from Manjalpur and Anand but have been residing in Australia for some time.
Reportedly, after the controversy, the couple left India and returned to Australia.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/nri-couple-apologizes-for-garba-kiss-leaves-india-after-backlash/story