‘Have some shame’: La Tomatina Delhi NCR event faces backlash online over food wastage

BookMyShow listing for La Tomatina Delhi NCR sparks controversy online

A proposed “La Tomatina 2026 – Delhi NCR” event has found itself at the centre of controversy even before it could take off, with social media users sharply criticising the concept and questioning its relevance in the Indian context. What was meant to be a lively, tomato-throwing festival has instead sparked a wider debate on practicality, cultural sensitivity, and food wastage.

The event, scheduled for May 16, 2026, at 11 AM in Gurugram, promises five hours of tomato-throwing activities and is open to participants aged 12 and above. However, soon after the listing surfaced on BookMyShow and screenshots began circulating online, criticism started pouring in.

A major concern raised by users revolves around the timing and setting. With NCR’s peak summer heat in May, many questioned how an outdoor event involving perishable food would maintain hygiene and safety standards. Others expressed discomfort over allowing minors to participate in what could potentially become a chaotic and unregulated environment.

Internet lashes out

Beyond logistics, the backlash also took a more socio-cultural turn. Several users criticised the concept as an unnecessary imitation of Western festivals, arguing that such events overlook India’s own cultural context. Some pointed out the stark contrast between food wastage at such events and the ongoing challenges of food insecurity faced by many in the country.

One user sarcastically apologised to Spain, saying that while the festival had been copied, the discipline associated with it had not. Another questioned the ethics of organising such an event in a country where a large population still depends on subsidised food schemes, calling it insensitive.

There were also concerns around safety and crowd behaviour. Some users warned that an event involving throwing objects in a public setting especially in a densely populated city like Gurugram could lead to harassment or mismanagement. Others highlighted the city’s existing infrastructure challenges, suggesting that even basic crowd control could become an issue.