It started as a lighthearted Instagram project by a final-year Delhi University journalism student (who has stayed mostly anonymous). The page, @fatdogsofdelhi, began by sharing photos of generously proportioned local dogs. Followers sent in nominations with names and locations, and it quickly became a full competition inspired in spirit by Alaska’s Fat Bear Week.
How it worked
- 64 dogs from Delhi-NCR entered.
- Voting ran through Instagram Story polls in successive knockout rounds starting 24 September 2026.
- Supporters treated it like a real election: campaign posters, memes, endorsement videos/reels, fan clubs, accusations of “paid votes” or PR, and people from as far as Kerala and Kolkata joining in.
- The account exploded from roughly 1,000–1,500 followers to nearly 100,000.
Many of the dogs are community/neighbourhood animals (not always single-owner pets) cared for by residents and shopkeepers. Memorable names include Kutta Singh, Mahakutteshwar, Dahi Bhalli, Rambabu (aka Chonky), Hero, Tara Khan (aka Khan Saheb), and others.
Current status (as of 30 September 2026)
The grand finale is underway today. Recent updates put Googoo (a ~46 kg mixed-breed from Saket, currently at an animal-care centre on a supervised weight-loss programme) against the late Gola (also known as Kebab or Rajpal Singh, from SDA Market/Hauz Khas), who advanced posthumously after strong semi-final support. Two popular dogs, including Gola and Tara, died during the contest; supporters continued voting for them as a tribute.
Voting is both online (Instagram Stories) and in-person at designated “polling booths” in Delhi-NCR (e.g., locations in Gurgaon, Vasant Vihar, Kamla Nagar, Punjabi Bagh) this afternoon/evening.
Broader notes
The organisers have used the sudden spotlight to highlight animal welfare groups and charities helping strays. Some dog lovers have raised concerns that celebrating obesity risks normalising an unhealthy condition (joint stress, diabetes risk, etc.), while others see it as wholesome community fun that humanises and draws positive attention to neighbourhood dogs.
It’s pure wholesome internet chaos mixed with local pride—exactly the kind of odd, joyful distraction that spreads fast. Check @fatdogsofdelhi for the latest polls and eventual winner.
