18.10.2026 22:51
Footage recorded on the banks of the Seine in Paris at a time when protests were escalating and smoke was rising from the city caused astonishment. As smoke covered the sky due to fires on the opposite bank of the river, it drew attention that a group gathered by the river danced to music as if nothing had happened. These contrasting scenes occurring in the capital at the same moments quickly became a trending topic on social media, revealing a striking picture of the atmosphere in the country.
Footage recorded in Paris during the protests held in France on October 17 laid bare the striking contrast in the city. As couples danced to music on the banks of the Seine, smoke rising from the opposite bank of the river drew attention. The footage also attracted interest on social media.
THEY DANCED ON THE BANKS OF THE SEINE
In the footage shot in Paris, a large number of people are seen dancing in pairs on the stone quay along the river. While some people watch the dancers sitting on the steps, when the camera turns to the opposite bank, thick smoke rising above the buildings enters the frame.
Shortly afterward, the camera turns back to the dancers, bringing the city's lively scenes together in the same frame. On one side are the dancers, and on the other, smoke rising from fires that broke out during the protests.
PROTESTS IN PARIS TURNED VIOLENT
Across France on October 17, large-scale demonstrations were held to protest the high cost of living and deteriorating public services. The demonstrations, which were also supported by students and trade unions, turned into violent incidents in some cities.
In Paris, clashes occurred between police and demonstrators, and some businesses and vehicles were damaged. Looting and fires also occurred in various cities across the country. The city hall in Limoges was heavily damaged in a fire, while it was reported that the tourism office in Lyon was also set on fire.