The rise of a unique genre on social media has been witnessed, where Indian migrants share their undocumented migration experiences. They have become influencers, providing guidance, tips, and documenting their perilous journeys through YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok.
These ‘dunki influencers‘ showcase their challenging routes from South America to the US-Mexico border, aiming to assist others in navigating similar paths. Despite criticisms and controversies, these influencers persist in shedding light on their journeys and aspirations for a better life.
In recent times, a wave of Indian migrants turned social media influencers has emerged, chronicling their undocumented journeys from various countries to the United States.
Through platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, these influencers offer insights, route suggestions, and risk assessments for fellow migrants seeking similar paths. They aim to assist others in navigating the daunting terrains, particularly in the forests between Colombia and Panama and the US-Mexico border.
Influencers’ Motivations And Beginnings
Jaspal Sharma, recognized by his moniker ‘2 Numbari USA Wala,’ embarked on his migration journey following setbacks in his attempts at legal migration.
His decision to leave India was influenced by the aftermath of the farmers’ protests, which left him disillusioned with the existing system. During the height of these protests, Sharma initiated his YouTube channel, intending to voice his perspectives and document societal issues.
As Sharma ventured on his migration journey, he encountered numerous challenges, including difficulties in maintaining connectivity and consistent internet access. Despite these obstacles, his commitment to sharing his experiences remained steadfast. Throughout his journey, Sharma continued creating content, capturing the realities and hardships faced during the migration process.
Amidst the risks associated with undocumented migration, Sharma and influencers like him maintain a deep-seated motivation to assist and support their communities back home in India. Additionally, upon reaching the United States, they have sought avenues for legal assistance, navigating the complexities of immigration processes to establish themselves in their new environments.
Reflecting on his journey and content creation, Sharma explained, “I was already running a YouTube channel since the time of the farmers’ protests. So, I just thought of taking videos when I left on my journey.”
This signifies how Sharma’s initial intent to use his platform for social commentary gradually transitioned into documenting his personal migration experience, aiming to shed light on the challenges and realities faced by migrants while also providing insights and guidance for others contemplating similar journeys.
Live Streams And Migrant Assistance
‘Technical Gill’ and various influencers alike utilize live streaming platforms, notably Instagram, as an interactive medium to engage with a large audience seeking guidance, advice, and updates on immigration-related matters.
These live sessions play a crucial role as discussion forums where viewers, often numbering in the thousands, converge to address their concerns, uncertainties, and queries regarding immigration routes, trustworthy agents, and the latest updates in immigration policies.
During these live streams, influencers like Technical Gill actively participate, providing valuable insights and support to individuals who are either contemplating embarking on similar migration journeys or are already undergoing the process.
Through these interactions, they aim to alleviate uncertainties and offer practical guidance based on their personal experiences and knowledge of the immigration system.
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Gill, emphasizing his commitment to assisting others, stated, “I try to help them with YouTube videos, especially because I have lived and worked in Mexico and other countries so I know the system.“
This statement underscores the influencers’ dedication to leveraging their firsthand experiences and understanding of various immigration systems, acquired through their own journeys and time spent in different countries, to aid and educate their audience.
By utilizing platforms like YouTube and Instagram, these influencers provide a sense of community and support, empowering migrants with information, advice, and insights that can potentially navigate the complexities and challenges of the migration process.
Their efforts not only serve as a source of guidance but also create a space for dialogue and solidarity among individuals undertaking similar paths toward a new life abroad.
Financial Aspects And Risks Involved
Amit Deswal, having successfully obtained asylum and employment in California, recognizes the financial opportunities associated with running popular YouTube channels within the realm of undocumented migration.
He acknowledges that while some influencers do generate considerable financial gains through their channels, there’s a simultaneous recognition among many of the inherent risks and stigma linked to illegal migration.
Deswal highlighted the primary objective of individuals managing these YouTube channels, stating, “The main purpose of those who run YouTube channels is money.” He emphasizes that running a successful channel in this niche requires dedication, time investment, and building a substantial subscriber base.
These influencers invest significant effort in creating content that resonates with their audience, addressing the complexities of migration, and providing valuable insights into the journey and challenges involved.
However, even amidst the potential financial gains, concerns persist among both influencers and migrants regarding the legality and ethical considerations of undocumented migration. There’s an awareness of the risks involved in openly documenting such journeys, especially considering the legal implications and the potential impact on ongoing asylum processes or future immigration prospects.
Deswal’s perspective highlights the duality within this space—acknowledging the financial prospects while being mindful of the ethical, legal, and social implications that come with openly discussing and documenting illegal migration experiences.
It underlines the complex interplay between the pursuit of financial opportunities and the moral and legal dilemmas inherent in portraying and profiting from such journeys.
Influence And Criticism
Dunki influencers encounter criticism stemming from the perception that their content might set an unfavorable precedent or create complications within visa procedures for legitimate travelers. These influencers often face comments expressing concerns about potentially endorsing or glorifying illegal migration.
However, they counter these criticisms by asserting that their primary aim is not to promote undocumented migration but to shed light on the challenges and risks inherent in such journeys while offering guidance and support to those navigating similar paths.
Jaspal Sharma, one of these influencers, shared an example of the criticism directed at dunki-takers, stating, “Some people say, ‘You (dunki-takers) are spending Rs 50 lakh on agents and to take such trips, just to end up as a daily wage-worker in the US. Why not use such money to get a good job in India instead?’”
This sentiment underscores the skepticism expressed by critics who question the substantial financial investment and risks undertaken for a potentially uncertain future in another country, suggesting that the resources could be utilized more fruitfully within India.
However, the influencers argue that their narratives aren’t intended to glamourize or encourage illegal migration but rather to provide a realistic portrayal of the hurdles and dangers involved.
Their content aims to serve as a cautionary tale and educational resource, informing others about the complexities and hardships faced during undocumented migration. They seek to offer guidance and support to individuals contemplating such journeys, presenting a comprehensive picture that encompasses both the hardships and potential outcomes.
Despite facing criticism, these influencers remain resolute in their belief that their content serves a purpose beyond just showcasing migration.
They maintain that their narratives aim to provide insight into the stark realities of undocumented migration, hoping to equip potential migrants with information that fosters informed decision-making rather than glorifying or advocating for illegal means of relocation.
The emergence of dunki influencers on social media reflects the aspirations, struggles, and risks faced by Indian migrants seeking a better life abroad.
Despite criticisms and controversies surrounding their content, these influencers persist in documenting their journeys, aiming to provide guidance and support to those contemplating similar paths.
Their narratives underscore the complexities and challenges inherent in undocumented migration, highlighting the need for informed discussions and potential policy responses to address these realities.
Sources: The Print, The New York Times, Scroll
Image sources: Google Images
Feature Image designed by Saudamini Seth
Find the blogger: Katyayani Joshi
This post is tagged under: Dunki, SRK, struggle, illegal, immigration, illegal immigration, India migrants, migrants, influencers, Dunki influencers, criticisms, controversies, potential policy, complexities, Shahrukh Khan, technical gill
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