Irina Rudakova, a prominent Russian model and reality television star based in India, has humorously reversed her initial dismay over the cost of pani puri in Mumbai. Rudakova, who had previously expressed disbelief at paying ₹60 for the popular street food, changed her tune after a surprising encounter with its price tag at Dubai Airport.
From Mumbai Street Food to Dubai Airport Prices
The influencer's journey with pani puri began in Mumbai's Lokhandwala Market, where she playfully reacted to the ₹60 price. Her video, posted in late July, showed her repeatedly exclaiming "60 rupees, 60 rupees" in mock shock at the street vendor's quote. This initial reaction garnered significant attention on social media.
However, Rudakova's perspective dramatically shifted during a recent trip to Dubai. In a 42-second Instagram video recorded from Dubai's Terminal 1, she addressed her followers with a candid admission: "Friends, I was wrong about the 60 rupees pani puri in Mumbai's Lokhandwala Market. I complained a lot about it... Here, pani puri costs 42 dirhams, which is Rs 1,096. Seeing this, I am now returning to Mumbai."
Social Media Reacts to Price Disparity
Her latest video, shared approximately three weeks after her original post, quickly went viral, drawing amused comments from users who highlighted the vast price difference between Mumbai's accessible street food and international airport rates. Many followers joked that her "complaint" now served as an unexpected endorsement of Mumbai's affordable and vibrant street food culture.
Beyond the price, Rudakova also shared a follow-up video in early August, where she was seen actually tasting the Mumbai pani puri. In the caption, she admitted to enjoying the snack, softening her initial reaction with genuine foodie appreciation.
Who is Irina Rudakova?
Irina Rudakova, a dancer, model, and actress, moved to India at the age of 20 to pursue a career in entertainment. She gained significant recognition after winning Season 2 of Discovery Channel's "Reality Queens of the Jungle," securing a ₹15 lakh prize. In 2024, she made history as the first foreign contestant on Bigg Boss Marathi (Season 5), where her cheerful personality and efforts to speak Marathi endeared her to a large fanbase across India.