Social Media Virality Is Often Engineered”: PR Expert Saurabh Bavaliya Raises Concerns Over Digital Narrative Culture

In the middle of the growing online discussion surrounding the so-called “Cockroach Janta Party” trend, public relations and marketing strategist Saurabh Bavaliya (Sharma) has shared his observations on how modern digital narratives are shaping the mindset of India’s youth.

Saurabh Bavaliya (Sharma), founder of Ezilon Media, believes that many viral movements on social media are no longer completely organic. According to him, strategic promotions, influencer marketing, meme pages, and algorithm-based amplification now play a major role in deciding what becomes popular online.

“People often believe that anything trending on social media reflects public opinion naturally, but the reality of digital marketing is very different,” said Saurabh. “Today, with the right budget and strategy, almost any topic can be pushed into mainstream conversation within a short period of time.”

Having spent more than 12 years in the PR and marketing industry, Saurabh explained that online visibility is heavily influenced by paid promotion networks and coordinated campaigns. He noted that even highly talented students, creators, and innovators struggle to gain reach unless there is a strong promotional strategy behind them.

“If an IIT student develops a revolutionary idea or innovation, it usually does not reach millions of people automatically,” he said. “In most cases, visibility comes only after marketing campaigns, influencer collaborations, or social media promotion. That is why people should understand how digital trends actually work.”

Commenting on the “Cockroach Janta Party” trend specifically, Saurabh said Indian youth should analyze viral movements carefully instead of reacting emotionally to internet campaigns.

“The younger generation must learn to separate genuine awareness from emotionally-driven online narratives,” he stated. “Social media has become extremely powerful, and people need to understand that not every viral movement grows naturally.”

Saurabh also spoke about India’s changing position in global politics and how digital platforms are increasingly being used to influence public opinion worldwide.

“India today is growing economically, diplomatically, and strategically. Whenever a country rises on the global stage, conversations around influence, narratives, and information warfare also become stronger,” he said. “This is not limited to India alone. Around the world, digital platforms are now being used to shape perceptions and influence societies.”

According to him, young internet users should avoid blindly participating in every viral trend without understanding the people, motives, or campaigns operating behind it.

“I am not saying people should stay silent on important social issues,” he clarified. “Citizens absolutely have the right to raise their voice against crime, injustice, or government failures. But awareness should come with proper understanding, responsibility, and critical thinking.”

Saurabh further emphasized the importance of consuming balanced content online and following personalities who encourage knowledge, education, and positive growth rather than constant outrage and negativity.

“Young people should follow voices that motivate them to improve their mindset, career, and awareness,” he said. “The internet is filled with content that influences emotions very quickly, so choosing the right information sources has become extremely important.”

He also highlighted how social media often removes context from public statements and turns selective clips into national controversies.

“Not every statement should be interpreted in the most extreme way,” he said. “Many times, a single sentence is taken out of context and amplified emotionally across platforms. This creates unnecessary division and confusion among people.”

The PR expert believes India’s youth must become more aware of how digital influence operates in the modern era, especially when algorithms and viral content can shape public thinking within hours.

“In today’s world, narratives travel faster than facts,” Saurabh concluded. “That is why critical thinking, media awareness, and independent analysis are becoming essential for every young citizen using social media.”