Overview

• The anecdote surfaced in an Instagram video by vlogger Jay, where a man says his friend’s US tourist visa was refused after admitting he had not traveled beyond Delhi.
• The speaker in the clip claims the officer advised the applicant to explore India first, while noting he himself has visited 29 states.
• Hindustan Times, Mint, News18 and Financial Express amplified the story after it went viral, each noting it stems from user‑generated content that they have not independently verified.
• No response from the US Embassy or consular officials was reported in the coverage.
• Online reaction ranged from endorsements of the alleged advice to criticisms and skepticism, with the episode feeding a broader discussion about unpredictable visa denials for Indian applicants.