This 11-year-old boy is going viral for his incredible boat dance: Watch

An 11-year-old boy from Indonesia has taken the internet by storm with his incredible dance moves during a traditional boat race.

Rayyan Arkan Dhika, a Class 5 student from Kuantan Singingi in Riau province, went viral after a video showed him dancing effortlessly on the prow of a speeding canoe during the annual Pacu Jalur event.

His spontaneous performance, which he later described in a BBC interview as unplanned and inspired, has been viewed millions of times online and even imitated by international athletes including Travis Kelce and Alex Albon.

He is now being dubbed the young "aura farmer". The term “aura farming,” popular on social media, refers to projecting an authentic, charismatic presence that draws admiration, a label many believe Rayyan now personifies.

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Born on December 28, 2014, Rayyan began dancing on boats at the age of nine, inspired by his father and uncle, both Pacu Jalur participants. His viral success has led to a series of high-profile appearances, including performances on national television and meetings with Indonesia’s ministers of culture and tourism. He was also named a cultural ambassador by the Governor of Riau.

Despite his growing fame, Rayyan says he hopes to become a police officer. “Every time my friends see me, they say, ‘you’re viral,’” he said.

Indonesia’s Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, praised the skill involved in performing on a fast-moving canoe, noting that children are often selected for their balance and agility.

Rayyan’s mother, Rani Ridawati, acknowledged concerns about safety but expressed confidence in her son’s swimming ability and the event’s dedicated rescue team.