Father Clarifies Mahindra Thar ROXX Was Family Purchase, Not Son's Reward

A video showing a Class 10 student being surprised with a brand-new Mahindra Thar ROXX after completing his board examinations has sparked widespread debate across social media platforms. The clip, which quickly went viral, initially drew criticism from many viewers who believed the parents had gifted a luxury SUV to their underage son. The controversy intensified as users questioned whether such gestures could promote irresponsible behaviour among teenagers who are below the legal driving age in India.

The widely circulated video shows the student’s parents walking toward the school gate while recording themselves and hinting at a “big surprise". As the exam ends and students begin leaving the campus, the parents spot their son and excitedly call out to him. The boy is greeted with a hug from his mother before she points toward the vehicle and announces the surprise. The student appears visibly thrilled as the family celebrates the moment beside the newly purchased SUV.

Soon after the video gained traction online, social media users began criticising the family, arguing that presenting a high-end vehicle to a minor sends the wrong message. Many commenters raised concerns that rewarding academic milestones with expensive vehicles could encourage underage driving or create unrealistic expectations. Others argued that such public displays of luxury might inadvertently normalise the idea that teenagers could drive cars before they reach the legally permitted age.

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Responding to the backlash, the boy’s father, Makarand Taayadey, issued a clarification through a Facebook post. He explained that the vehicle was purchased for the family and was never intended for their son to drive. According to him, the viral video was misunderstood by viewers and created a misleading impression about their intentions behind the surprise.

In his statement, Taayadey emphasised that he and his wife consider themselves responsible citizens and would be the only ones driving the SUV. He added that their son is fully aware that he cannot operate the vehicle until he reaches the legal driving age and obtains a valid licence. The father said the moment captured in the video was meant simply as a celebratory gesture after the teenager completed his board examinations.

The incident has also reignited broader discussions about underage driving in India. Under the Motor Vehicles Act 1988, individuals must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid driving licence to operate a car. Authorities have repeatedly warned parents against allowing minors to drive, citing serious safety risks and the potential for accidents. The viral video has therefore become part of a larger conversation online about parental responsibility, road safety, and adherence to traffic regulations.

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