YouTuber Benjamin Rich, known as Bald and Bankrupt, is facing criticism for describing India as the “most frustrating place to travel.” In his recent video titled I visited India so you don’t have to, Rich shares his experiences from Delhi and Kolkata. The vlog starts with a rickshaw ride to Paharganj in Delhi, where he sarcastically remarks on the city’s lack of improvement since his last visit, saying, “Surely there must be some improvements in the last six years. Judging by the traffic, not too many.”
While Rich praises the hospitality of the Indian people, the majority of his video highlights issues like potholes, waterlogged streets, and constant honking. He calls India “the most frustrating place to travel” and advises viewers not to attempt such trips unless they are “professional travellers.”
The video has sparked a range of reactions online. Some viewers accuse him of deliberately showcasing India’s negative aspects to provoke reactions. One user commented, “Showing the worst of India in order to get the most anti-India engagement? Obviously.” Another added, “Why does Bald keep degrading India, showing the small ugly side always? India has developed a lot.”
Others, however, agreed with his criticism of India’s infrastructure, noting issues such as potholes, delays in projects, and polluted streets. One user said, “We are piss poor in infra – roads have unlimited potholes…He’s just showing the reality of India.”
In response to the backlash, Rich explained that his frustrations stem from observing problems like air pollution, trash in rivers, and insufficient infrastructure. He noted, “I called India a failed state because to me it is in many parts.” Despite his harsh comments, he added that he holds no ill will towards the people of India, whom he described as “fun and friendly.”