Protesters in India demanding the resignation of education minister Dharmendra Pradhan have adopted an internet trend centering on Norwegian footballer Erling Haaland during demonstrations in July 2026. Gen-Z activists and social media users have turned the 25-year-old striker into a humorous focal point, dubbing him the "people's prince" and linking his online presence to pressure on political leaders amid the ongoing net question leak controversy.

The trend grew after a parody Instagram post using Narendra Modi's name invited Haaland to reply, joking that Modi would accept Pradhan's resignation if Haaland responded; the post drew thousands of comments. Comedians and users contributed memes and jokes, and protesters in Mumbai even mimicked Haaland's "Viking roar" celebration during street demonstrations, showing how internet culture is being used alongside slogans and speeches.

Observers note that frustrated young people are using memes and viral content to express anger and mobilize; the source attributes the reporting to The Telegraph India and links the phenomenon to the broader Gen-Z movement in India.