The year 2025 was marked by a series of viral moments that captured public imagination, sparked national debates and influenced culture far beyond social media platforms. From spontaneous moments at religious gatherings to unexpected clips from entertainment and everyday life, these videos not only circulated widely but also shaped conversations across communities and borders. This yearender highlights the most impactful visual moments that resonated with millions over the past twelve months.
Coldplay kiss cam:
One of the year’s most shared videos originated at a Music of the Spheres tour concert by British band Coldplay in July — an ordinary kiss cam segment that instantly escalated into international discourse.
During a performance at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, the Jumbotron camera panned to Andy Byron, then chief executive officer of data-focused tech firm Astronomer, and Kristin Cabot, the company’s chief people officer. The pair were shown embracing briefly before attempting to duck out of view as the crowd watched. Coldplay frontman Chris Martin improvised a light-hearted comment: “Either they’re having an affair or they’re just very shy.” The footage rapidly spread across TikTok, X and Instagram and was seen millions of times.
pic.twitter.com/WpHjYli7EJ— Preta :) (@pretademaiss) July 17, 2025
The impact was swift and severe. Both Byron and Cabot were placed on leave by Astronomer, which issued a statement stressing the importance of leadership conduct, and Byron resigned as CEO shortly afterwards, with co-founder and chief product officer Pete DeJoy assuming interim leadership. Cabot also resigned days later.
Kumbh Mela’s viral garland seller:
Early in 2025, the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj became a wellspring of viral content. Among its most pervasive was video footage of a 16-year-old garland seller affectionately referred to as Monalisa by online audiences. The clip, shared widely on Instagram and TikTok, showed her calmly selling rudraksha beads and malas amidst the massive crowds. Viewers were drawn to her composure and presence, and the video quickly travelled beyond Indian feeds to global attention.
The viral sensation from Indore, Monalisa Bhosle, who won hearts while selling garlands at the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj, has been sent home by her father following declining sales and her sudden rise to internet fame. Who is Monalisa? Monalisa Bhosle, fondly called the… pic.twitter.com/HI225vDjmK — (Parody) (@pb3060) January 20, 2025
Reports from mainstream outlets confirmed that the sudden fame brought intense attention and unforeseen risks, prompting her family to remove her from the mela for safety. Viral coverage also noted emerging opportunities in entertainment as her recognition grew.
Labubu takes over feeds and fashion:
One of the most recognisable viral visuals of 2025 was Labubu, the wide-eyed, sharp-toothed designer character created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung and popularised globally through POP MART’s blind-box collectibles. While Labubu had existed for years within niche designer-toy circles, it broke decisively into the mainstream this year through short-form video platforms.
Unboxing clips, shelf tours and “Labubu hunts” flooded Instagram Reels, TikTok and Xiaohongshu, with creators filming their reactions to pulling rare variants from sealed boxes. The character’s expressive face, mischievous grin and gothic-cute aesthetic made it instantly recognisable on screen, helping the videos travel across language and cultural barriers.
By mid-2025, Labubu had moved beyond collector culture. Viral videos showed the figurines being used as bag charms, dashboard companions and even wedding decor props. Influencers across Asia, Europe and India filmed Labubu-themed outfits and cafe visits, while resale videos documented rare editions being flipped online for several times their original price.
Rehman Dakait, Akshaye Khanna and the 'Dhurandhar' ripple effect:
One of the most distinctive street-level viral threads of 2025 emerged from the unexpected convergence of cinema, music and internet culture following the release and reception of "Dhurandhar". The film, which featured Akshaye Khanna in a gritty, understated role based on Pakistani gangster Rehman Dakait went crazy viral across Instagram and other social media platforms.
Short clips of Khanna’s screen presence — particularly his restrained expressions, body language and dialogue delivery — began circulating widely on Instagram Reels. These edits were frequently paired with the song FA9LA, dubbed as "Rehman Dakait Entry Song', itself gained independent traction on social platforms.
Within this trend, videos linked to Rehman Dakait began surfacing more prominently.
Robots take the stage:
A concert clip from China featuring humanoid robots dancing alongside singer Wang Leehom became one of the most shared technology-entertainment videos of the year. The performance gained additional traction after Elon Musk reacted publicly to the footage. Widely reported by international media, the video fed into broader discussions about robotics, automation and cultural spectacle.
India's Got Latent: Virality and backlash
"India’s Got Latent", a comedy and improvisation show conceptualised and hosted by stand-up comic Samay Raina, became one of the most debated viral formats of 2025 after multiple clips from its episodes circulated widely on Instagram, YouTube Shorts and X. The show, which featured comedians and internet personalities including Ranveer Allahbadia (BeerBiceps) and other guests, was originally designed as an uncensored, adult-oriented comedy space.
The controversy erupted when short excerpts from the show went viral on social media platforms. Several clips showed jokes and remarks that viewers accused of being insensitive.
As the clips gained traction, criticism mounted online, with users questioning the boundaries of humour and the responsibility of creators whose content now reached mass audiences far beyond ticket-paying viewers. Ranveer Allahbadia, whose presence drew significant attention due to his mainstream following, became a focal point of the backlash, with critics arguing that his platform carried additional accountability. He later issued a public apology for the same.
The viral video moments that stood out in 2025 were largely driven by spontaneity and scale. Together, they reflected how short-form video continues to shape public conversation in real time — amplifying individuals, fuelling debate and, in some cases, triggering consequences far beyond the original moment.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
Find the best of Al News in one place, specially curated for you every weekend.
Stay on top of the latest tech trends and biggest startup news.
