A campaign appearance by Indian Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi in Tamil Nadu has triggered a massive social media debate ahead of the April 23, 2026, elections. Viral videos and images from the rally led to racism claims about a noticeable change in the Prime Minister’s skin tone, with netizens accusing him of using dark-toned makeup or bronzer to appeal to local voters.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has landed in this social media storm during a high-stakes election season.

Screenshots from the Tamil Nadu rally circulated widely online, with users alleging that Modi appeared significantly darker than usual. Critics labeled the move “racial stereotyping” and “method acting,” questioning the authenticity of the PM’s outreach.

Reactions were swift and biting. One user questioned the logic behind the move, asking, “Seriously? He made himself dark in TN to get votes??”.

The criticism extended to his political priorities, as one netizen remarked, “How unfortunate! Bro just trying hard to fit in everywhere except implementing the bill”. Another called him a “master of disguise,” while a separate post labeled him a “masked hypocrite” who would do anything for power.

Some users took a more technical jab at the alleged makeup choice, with one person writing, “For his speech in Tamil Nadu, Modi tanned himself to appear darker. Then half an hour later, he removed the dark Fenty Beauty foundation and became light again with Rare Beauty”.
 

More serious allegations of “racist cosplay” emerged. One critic argued that the act was “cultural mockery from a PM who preaches ‘one India’ while pandering to skin-tone stereotypes for votes”.

Another post highlighted the disconnect between optics and governance, stating, “Modi ji’s new PR stunt in Tamil Nadu: darker skin-tone makeup to ‘connect’ with locals? Treating Tamilians like a costume change instead of addressing real fears like delimitation”.

The debate has also touched upon the deeper social implications in the region. One observer noted that Modi has “dumb advisors” regarding Tamil cultural strategy, suggesting that “colorism is so deep rooted in TN than even the racist White society”.


Critics also argued that instead of changing shades with foundation to “look like one among them,” the leadership should focus on the political future of the state and the actual issues fighting for attention.