Vivek Ramaswamy's barefoot interview ignites controversy but many netizens praise him for holding up Indian culture

Entrepreneur and political figure Vivek Ramaswamy has sparked fresh debate online after an old video of him conducting a home interview without wearing shoes resurfaced on social media. The 39-year-old, who is now running for governor of Ohio following his 2024 presidential campaign, found himself at the center of criticism as some users questioned his choice to go barefoot, calling it "uncivilised" and "un-American." The video has placed him in the spotlight and has ignited conversations about cultural norms, political image and public expectations from American leaders.

An X-user shared a screenshot of the interview on the micro-blogging platform and wrote, “Vivek will never be governor of Ohio. This is unacceptable for America.” The user also circled his bare feet in the photo. While some defended his actions, pointing out that being barefoot at home is a common practice in many cultures, while others saw it as a lack of decorum, particularly for a public figure.



Some criticised his choice, questioning why people insist on being shoeless, with one user even speculating about an unpleasant smell. Others, however, defended him, arguing that being barefoot at home is perfectly normal. Some pointed out that those who found it “disgusting” likely lacked awareness of cultural differences or personal hygiene. A few even sarcastically noted that keeping on “dirty, stinky shoes” is apparently what defines “real Americans.”
The post has accumulated more than a lakh views on X.

What are your thoughts about the political leader choosing to go barefoot inside his home?