Global music sensation Bad Bunny has sparked significant controversy and widespread criticism after sharing a photo of himself touching a protected ancient Maya artefact during a visit to a major museum in Mexico City.
Museum Visit Breaches Strict Preservation Rules
The incident occurred on December 17 at the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), as the Puerto Rican rapper, whose real name is Benito Ocasio, was concluding his Debí Tirar Más Fotos World Tour. The 31-year-old artist posted an image showing his hand placed on what appeared to be an ancient carved stone slab.
These monuments, typically created between 250 and 900 AD, are invaluable historical records. They often feature portraits of powerful rulers and detailed hieroglyphic texts, used to commemorate dynastic events, political power, religious rituals, and the passage of time.
Immediate Institutional Response and Online Backlash
INAH security personnel intervened immediately upon noticing the breach of protocol. The institution confirmed that staff warned the singer that touching archaeological pieces was strictly prohibited, after which he removed his hand.
INAH swiftly issued a public statement, reiterating that physical contact with archaeological goods is forbidden to maintain the integrity of the exhibits. They emphasised that Mexico’s cultural heritage must be respected by all visitors, highlighting that contact can cause irreversible long-term damage.
The online reaction was fierce and unforgiving. Social media users flooded platforms like X (formerly Twitter) with condemnation, labelling the star "ignorant" and criticising a perceived sense of privilege. One user commented, "Obviously thought the rules didn't apply to him because he's famous," while another angrily questioned, "What privilege does he have to go around touching artifacts?"
Under Mexico’s Federal Law on Monuments, touching, damaging, or removing archaeological items can result in fines or even imprisonment. Following the backlash, Bad Bunny deleted the contentious image from his social media accounts.
Controversy Follows a Tumultuous Tour Period
This museum incident came just days after the rapper took a very public and painful-looking tumble onstage during a concert at Mexico City's 65,000-seat GNP Seguros Stadium. Fan footage showed him slipping and falling during a performance of his song Efecto.
These controversies unfold roughly two months before Bad Bunny is scheduled to headline the Super Bowl halftime show in February 2024—a booking that has already drawn political criticism. Former US President Donald Trump previously called the choice "ridiculous," partly due to the artist's anti-Trump stance and his Spanish-language repertoire. The furor was further fuelled by viral footage of Bad Bunny remaining seated during God Bless America at a New York Yankees game.
The recent museum misstep highlights the intense scrutiny facing international celebrities and serves as a stark reminder of the universal importance of preserving fragile historical artefacts for future generations.
