Aura farming is the newest trend captivating Gen Z. It’s all about radiating confidence, calm, and charm without making an effort. The term “farming” comes from gaming culture, where it means collecting points. In this case, it refers to collecting an aura in an invisible, magnetic presence.
Aura farming is not about loudness or drama. It is about looking unbothered, cool, and collected. And in a world full of noise, this low-effort, high-impact aesthetic is taking over.
The viral aura farming moment started with Rayyan Arkan Dhika, an 11-year-old boy from Indonesia. He became an internet sensation after his calm dance moves on the edge of a speeding boat went viral. The performance was part of the traditional Pacu Jalur festival, where Rayyan danced at the front of a canoe, guiding rowers with his serene movements.
His performance stood out because it perfectly captured what “Aura farming” is about: staying cool, calm, and controlled amid chaos. With sunglasses on, arms moving in rhythm, Rayyan embodied “peak aura farming.” The video blew up on TikTok, Instagram, and Reddit, with millions of views flooding in. Looking at his golbal popularity the Indonesian Government has now made him Tourism ambassador.
Soon, Rayyan’s viral video became a global sensation. Celebrities and brands jumped on the aura farming bandwagon. Travis Kelce, Alex Albon, and footballers from PSG shared Rayyan’s video, praising his effortless style. The Mumbai Police even joined the fun, posting their own take on aura farming, with the caption “Farming aura since 1935.”
But it didn’t stop there. The Singapore Navy posted a video recreating Rayyan’s moves aboard their MSRV Protector, using the hashtag #DefendingOurEveryday. Even musicians like Steve Aoki and Wiz Khalifa jumped in, resharing the clip and embracing the trend.
Why It’s Resonating with Gen Z and Gen Alpha
Aura farming appeals to younger generations because it aligns with their values. In a world where everything feels overhyped, aura farming is about quiet confidence. It’s the idea that being calm, cool, and collected is the most powerful form of self-expression. But here’s the catch trying too hard completely ruins the vibe.
Social media is a place where “effortless cool” is highly prized, and Gen Z has mastered the art of being low-key yet commanding.