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From reels to red carpet: How these influencers made it to Bollywood

TOI Entertainment Desk
| ETimes.in | Last updated on - May 21, 2025, 21:00 IST
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1/6

Niharika NM

Niharika NM captured audiences with her energetic comic sketches and vibrant personality. While her official acting debut is awaited, her growing presence on the red carpet at events like Cannes and collaborations with Bollywood stars signal her rising trajectory as a multifaceted entertainer.

2/6

Bhuvan Bam

He emerged as a powerhouse on YouTube, captivating millions with his character-driven Reels and relatable humor. His journey into acting reached a milestone with his lead role in the Disney+ Hotstar series Taaza Khabar, making him one of the first digital creators to headline an OTT show. Bhuvan’s seamless transition showcased how internet fame can open doors to serious acting opportunities.

3/6

Dolly Singh

Dolly Singh, whose versatility in comedy and fashion Reels won her a devoted following. Her ability to balance quirky humor with emotional depth led to acclaimed performances in web series like Modern Love Mumbai and the film Thank You For Coming. Dolly’s journey reflects how influencers can diversify their craft beyond social media and carve out a niche in mainstream storytelling.

4/6

Kusha Kapila

She first gained fame with her hilarious comic sketches and fashion-forward Reels that struck a chord with the youth. Her talent and charm soon translated to the big screen, with roles in films like Thank You for Coming and Sukhee. Her presence at the Cannes Film Festival cemented her status as a rising star in both digital and traditional entertainment circles.

5/6

Prajakta Koli

Known as MostlySane, is another shining example of digital success translating into Bollywood recognition. Starting with relatable content on YouTube, Prajakta’s charisma and authenticity earned her prominent roles in Netflix’s Mismatched and the hit film Jugjugg Jeeyo. Beyond acting, she became a United Nations ambassador, proving her influence goes beyond entertainment.

6/6

Viraj Ghelani

On the comedy front, Viraj Ghelani gained recognition through FilterCopy and other popular comedic platforms. His natural flair for timing and expressions secured him roles alongside Bollywood heavyweights in films like Govinda Naam Mera and Jawan, illustrating how digital platforms can be stepping stones to mainstream cinema.

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