- By Supratik Das
- Tue, 16 Sep 2025 03:27 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Gemini Hug My Younger Self trend: A new social media trend called “Hug My Younger Self” has gone viral, with millions of users creating heartwarming, polaroid-style images of their present selves embracing their childhood versions. The craze is powered by Google Gemini’s Nano Banana tool, an AI-based image editor that has quickly become one of the most talked-about features online.
The 'Hug My Younger Self' trend blends emotion with technology. Users are uploading pictures of their present-day selves along with old childhood photos. With a simple prompt, Gemini’s Nano Banana creates realistic and endearing images of the two versions hugging, often styled like vintage polaroid photos.
From WhatsApp statuses to Instagram reels and family group chats, these AI-powered recreations have sparked a wave of nostalgia. The feature has already transformed hundreds of millions of images since its late August release.
How To Join The Hug My Younger Self Trend
These are the simple steps for anyone who wishes to give it a try:
• Download Gemini: Download the Google Gemini app from the Play Store or App Store.
• Upload Photos: Choose one photo of yourself now and one from your childhood.
• Enter Prompt: Enter a line like "click a cute polaroid picture of my older self hugging my younger self."
• Generate Image: Let Nano Banana work on the photos. Results typically take only a few seconds.
• Redo If Needed: If the output is not perfect, use the "Redo" option with a more specific prompt.• Share Instantly: Save the final image and share it on all the social media sites.
What Is Nano Banana?
Nano Banana is Google Gemini’s new image editing tool launched under DeepMind. The tool allows everyday users to turn static photos into 3D figurines, cinematic portraits, or blended recreations with just a prompt. Unlike other apps that often distort facial features, Nano Banana preserves clarity and realism, which has made it especially popular.
Some of its most viral uses include:
• Hug My Younger Self polaroid recreations.
• Bollywood-style vintage saree portraits.
• 3D miniature figurines of people and pets.
• Nostalgic family photo transformations.
The Bigger Picture
The tool’s speed, realism, and accessibility are the key reasons behind its explosive popularity. Users don’t need technical knowledge to operate it, and sharing is instant through Gemini’s built-in integration. Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp have amplified the trend with countless videos and reels showcasing the emotional results.
Along with the hugging trend, another trend known as the Vintage Saree Trend has gone viral. Users are creating retro Bollywood-inspired portraits from selfies by using Gemini. Top prompts are "dramatic retro look in black saree with moody shadows" or "classic red saree with cinematic golden-hour lighting."
The emergence of Nano Banana reveals how AI is changing digital creativity. What began as simple selfie filters has now evolved into lifelike 3D recreations and artistic edits. While questions around privacy and copyright remain, the trend demonstrates the power of AI to democratise creativity—allowing everyday users to feel like digital artists. With more trends expected in the coming months, Gemini’s Nano Banana is proving to be not just a tool, but a global cultural phenomenon.