In a bid to capture social media stardom, a Hyderabad youth’s daring stunt went hilariously awry when he set his pants ablaze for a reel, only to see his “cool” facade crumble amid rising flames. The video, shared on Instagram by

@dr.feelingsxfree, has racked up over 21,000 likes, with netizens flooding the comments with laughter and witty jabs. The incident, which unfolded on a city street, highlights the risky lengths some go to for online attention.

The viral clip shows the young man confidently lip-syncing and strutting, pretending the fire on his pants is no big deal. “He thought he was pulling off a Hollywood-style effect,” remarked a local bystander who witnessed the chaos. But as the flames grew fiercer, his bravado vanished. Panicked, he yanked off his burning pants mid-street, dodging serious injury but not the internet’s roasting. “Why, bro, got the thrill you wanted?” quipped one commenter, echoing the public’s amused reaction.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Yoan FeelingsxFree (@dr.feelingsxfree)

Shared on May 3, the video has sparked a broader conversation about the dangers of reckless social media stunts. Netizens have both mocked and cautioned the youth, with one user advising, “AI can create fire effects, so why risk your life?” Another dubbed him “Gen Z’s fearless leader,” poking fun at his fleeting heroics. The reel’s popularity underscores the allure of viral fame, but it also serves as a cautionary tale. “Attention is fleeting, but burns last longer,” said Dr. Priya Rao, a Hyderabad-based psychologist, urging young creators to prioritize safety over clout.