UPDATE: A Seattle family’s unique texting rule is taking TikTok by storm, with over 730,000 views and counting. In a viral post, 22-year-old Sanjita Rishikesan revealed her parents’ unusual expectation that she and her brother must respond to family videos sent in a group chat, no matter how busy they are.
The TikTok trend, titled “Sometimes you just have to read your…texts and move on with your day,” struck a nerve when Sanjita shared a screenshot of her mother’s message. The text humorously demands that both Sanjita and her 17-year-old brother Srikar watch and respond to their parents’ shared content—specifically, funny reels and wholesome videos. The message read: “You have to watch it at the earliest available free time.”
This revelation has ignited a wave of reactions online, with viewers both amused and supportive of the parents’ efforts to stay connected. “I think they’re more chronically online than me,” Sanjita captioned her post, encapsulating the light-hearted humor of the situation.
The family dynamic, led by parents Karpagam Lakshminarasimhan (50) and Rishi Rangarajan (54), highlights a generational shift in communication. Sanjita described her upbringing as one that encouraged independence and self-expression, allowing her and Srikar to develop a strong sense of confidence. However, the new rule shows her parents’ desire to bridge generational gaps through shared digital content.
Sanijta’s TikTok post has prompted a flurry of comments from users, many of whom empathize with the siblings’ plight. One user, identifying as a desi psychologist, noted, “It’s called a bid for connection—they want to share what they find interesting.” Another chimed in with approval, stating, “As a mom, I approve this message.”
The messages in the family group chat often consist of light-hearted dog reels and family moments, with the occasional AI-generated videos. Sanjita’s reaction was one of disbelief followed by laughter, prompting her to share the message with friends and, ultimately, the world.
As the trend continues to capture attention, many are left wondering how families can navigate the balance of digital communication in an increasingly interconnected world. For Sanjita and Srikar, the demand to engage with their parents’ online interests has transformed into a source of laughter and a reminder of familial bonds.
What’s next for the Rishikesan family? Will they embrace their parents’ digital sharing habits, or will they continue to resist? As the conversation unfolds, it highlights the evolving nature of family communication in the digital age.
Stay tuned for more updates on this story as it develops, and keep an eye on TikTok for the latest in family dynamics and online trends.
