Telegram Challenges WhatsApp: Create a Video Exposing Feature Copying and Win ₹2.72 Lakh

In a bold and unconventional move, Telegram has thrown down the gauntlet to rival messaging giant WhatsApp. Telegram CEO Pavel Durov has accused WhatsApp of blatantly copying its features and has even labeled it a “cheap clone.” To prove his point and stir global attention, Durov has launched a unique competition with a hefty cash reward of $50,000 (around ₹2.72 lakh) for participants who create compelling videos highlighting WhatsApp’s alleged feature imitation.

The Competition: How You Can Win ₹2.72 Lakh

Telegram is inviting users worldwide to create short, TikTok-style videos that showcase how WhatsApp has copied features originally introduced on Telegram. The company has laid out a few ground rules:

• Videos must be in English

• Maximum duration: 180 seconds (3 minutes)

• Participants may use AI tools to enhance the video

• Deadline for submissions: May 26, 2025

• Winners will be announced in June 2025

To help content creators, Telegram has released a list of 30 specific features that were first introduced by the platform and allegedly later adopted by WhatsApp. Durov claims that the list is still incomplete, suggesting that many more Telegram features are yet to be cloned by its Meta-owned rival.

Accusations Beyond Just Copying

This is far from the first time Pavel Durov has taken a strong public stance against WhatsApp. In 2022, Durov made headlines when he accused WhatsApp of having built-in backdoors that could compromise user security. He went so far as to claim, “If you have WhatsApp installed, your device is at risk—even your other apps can be accessed.” He urged users to consider switching to any messaging platform other than WhatsApp, citing serious concerns over data privacy and user safety.

These recurring statements highlight Telegram’s ongoing efforts to position itself as a more secure, innovative, and privacy-focused alternative in the messaging app ecosystem.

Standing Firm for Free Speech

Durov is also making headlines for refusing to comply with alleged censorship demands from a Western European country. According to him, the country wanted Telegram to suppress conservative voices ahead of Romania’s upcoming presidential election. Durov stated firmly that he rejected the request and reiterated his commitment to defending freedom of expression, regardless of political pressure.

This statement has further fueled Telegram’s image as a platform that prioritizes user rights and refuses to bow to government or corporate influence.

A Battle Beyond Messaging Features

The rivalry between Telegram and WhatsApp is not new. Both platforms have spent years trying to outdo each other, adding similar features such as disappearing messages, voice chats, and enhanced group management tools. However, this recent contest initiated by Telegram represents a significant escalation in the war of innovation—and public perception.

By offering a monetary reward to expose feature duplication, Telegram is not only calling out WhatsApp but also engaging its global user base in the conversation. This move cleverly blends user-generated content with brand positioning, giving Telegram a strategic edge in both marketing and community engagement.

Final Thoughts

As the deadline for the competition approaches, all eyes are on what kind of creative and compelling content users come up with. Whether or not WhatsApp responds publicly remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Telegram isn’t backing down from a fight—and it’s using every tool at its disposal to make a statement.

For creators, privacy advocates, and social media users, this competition might just be the most creative way yet to engage in the ongoing battle of the messaging giants.