Indian Medical Student's Viral Campus Tour Breaks Chinese Food Stereotypes
An Indian medical student pursuing her education in China has taken social media by storm after offering an unprecedented look inside her university's state-of-the-art cafeteria. Komal Nigam, through her detailed Instagram reel, aimed to shatter common misconceptions about Chinese cuisine while showcasing what she describes as a "5-star" dining experience available to students at remarkably affordable prices.
Three Floors of Culinary Excellence
The massive government university cafeteria spans across three distinct levels, each offering a unique culinary journey. According to Komal's viral presentation, the ground floor specializes in traditional Chinese dishes, providing authentic local flavors to students. The second level emerges as the campus hub, featuring an eclectic mix of noodles, desserts, fresh fruits, and notably, a dedicated halal counter that Komal identifies as typically the busiest section.
What sets this cafeteria apart are the thoughtful amenities designed for health-conscious students. Diet charts and weighing machines are strategically placed, allowing students to monitor their nutritional intake and maintain dietary discipline—a feature rarely seen in educational institutions.
International Student Paradise on Third Floor
Komal's personal favorite, the third floor, has become the preferred destination for international students. This level transforms into a global food court with dedicated counters serving Thai, American, Chinese, and Western cuisines. The special Zenith Wok counter caters specifically to seafood enthusiasts, offering exotic options including octopus. The Chinese section provides a complete hot-pot experience, making it a social dining hotspot.
Beyond the main cafeteria, the building houses another restaurant that Komal humorously refers to as the "rich students' spot" due to slightly elevated pricing. However, the affordability of the main facility remains impressive—Komal demonstrated that her Thai spicy omelette with rice combined with a healthy plate of boiled vegetables and black rice totaled approximately Rs 250. Each meal comes with complimentary tea and soup, enhancing the value proposition.
Hygiene and Civic Responsibility
The Indian student emphasized the establishment's commitment to hygiene, taste, and reasonable pricing. She particularly noted the system where students return their used plates and cutlery themselves, reflecting the institution's emphasis on civic sense. "You know how important civic sense is here," Komal remarked in her video, highlighting this unique aspect of campus culture.
The viral clip sparked diverse reactions on Instagram, with some users corroborating her experience while others shared contrasting perspectives from their time in China. One commenter observed, "Young Chinese generation is way better than the old generation. The old generation doesn't accept any foreigner," while another humorously recalled their own cafeteria experiences with Chinese phrases.
Komal continues to document her Chinese campus life through her YouTube channel, providing Indian students considering overseas education with genuine insights into academic and cultural experiences abroad. Her viral cafeteria tour not only showcases the exceptional facilities available to international students but also serves as a cultural bridge, challenging stereotypes about Chinese food and student life.
