Desis Playfully ‘Squeeze’ Memes Out of a Viral TikTok Trend, Giving Orange Peel Theory a Juicy Turn

It’s no secret that TikTok is the ultimate trendsetter because to its ability to consistently roll out new and interesting features on the app. Desi social media often doesn’t adopt new ideas easily, but since the end of 2023, the popular “Orange Peel Theory” has caused quite a stir. Recently, this trend—which was fashionably late to the party—took on a wonderfully spicy twist as Desis quickly came up with memes. Since, let’s be honest, what is a viral trend if it doesn’t include a series of memes? Particularly when it seems to be forecasting how long people’s romantic relationships will last.

“Main oranges peel karna chahta hoon,” an Indian account on ‘X’ said in a fun way. “Dads who have been peeling and cutting fruits for years seeing their daughters settle for bare minimum orange peel guys,” said another, joining in on the fun. “It’s really simple to peel oranges,” quips the third. I really won’t even peel a pomegranate for myself, so let’s see who else is willing to do it. as if it’s not worthwhile. The fourth person to comment said, “Wtf is peeling oranges, I’d cut onions for you,” in the meanwhile.

The memes then simply started coming in.

However, what precisely is this theory? It’s a litmus test to see whether your spouse is a keeper—it’s more than simply peeling oranges. This widely shared test purports to help couples by identifying true love in a partnership. According to an Independent story, there is a myth that says it’s a certain indicator that your significant other really loves and cares for you when they peel your orange without asking. Although the act at the center of this trend seems straightforward, the principle may be seen in a variety of movements, such as tying your shoe, starting your automobile, or even peeling an orange that you are going to eat.

According to a TikToker, “the orange people theory basically describes when your partner takes the initiative to do something for you, something you’re perfectly capable of doing on your own.”

For example, your spouse passes the test if they open Coke cans on your behalf without asking. If your spouse voluntarily jumps up to get you a snack from the kitchen when you ask them to during a movie, then they pass the test.

But leave it to the Indians to not take this “tru lob” (true love) measurement too seriously; instead, they’ve celebrated with wild humor and transformed it into a meme fiesta!