This is not something new about the fact that India as a nation is pushing beyond their boundaries when it comes to culture and talent.
Instagram is one such platform that nobody fails to make it a great experience for watchers in the first go. As of 2024, India boasts about 25-35 lakh content creators, of whom approximately 1,50,000 are able to monetize their content.
India's cultural influence is exploding further and further onto the world, and this platform was at the heart of this renaissance. From Bollywood blockbusters to regional music sensations, from viral trends to groundbreaking sports achievements, India has been a trendsetter captivating the global attention.
A Global Platform for Indian Creators
Indian creators, from seasoned actors to emerging talents, took center stage on Instagram, collaborating with international artists and captivating audiences worldwide. Diljit Dosanjh teamed up with Saweetie for the infectious track Khutti, while King's remix of "Maan Meri Jaan" featuring Nick Jonas took the internet by storm. Harsh Likhari's collaboration with Connor Price on "Customs" showcased the growing popularity of Indian music in the global music scene. And let's not forget Dua Lipa's latest concert in Mumbai, where she performed the viral Indian mashup of "Levitating" and Shah Rukh Khan's Woh Ladki Jo.
Desi Vibes Go Viral
Indian trends and aesthetics took the world by storm. The "Asoka makeup" trend, inspired by the ancient Indian emperor, became a global sensation, with influencers from Indonesia to Slovakia embracing the look. Bollywood dialogues, particularly from iconic films like "Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham," became the soundtrack to countless reels created by international creators. Even global influencers like Drew Hicks and Agu Stanley embraced Indian languages and culture in their content, highlighting the growing appeal of Indian culture worldwide.
Music Sets the Stage
In recent times, Indian music has seen a surge in global popularity. Two songs namely, "Big Dawgs" and "Tambi Chamdi," have particularly spread infectious energy of Indian music all over the world. Big Dawgs by Hanumankind a high-energy hip-hop track, has taken the internet by storm that it made the worldwide rapper A$AP Rocky to collaborate with the singer. Its catchy beats, lyrics, and visuals have resonated with audiences worldwide. The song's popularity can be attributed to its unique mix of Indian and Western musical influences, creating a sound that is both familiar and fresh. Tambi Chamdi, on the other hand, is a captivating marathi folk fusion song that has garnered immense praise for its innovative sound and powerful vocals. The song's traditional folk melodies, combined with contemporary production techniques, have created a unique listening experience. The song's success highlights the growing appreciation for India's rich musical heritage and its potential to inspire modern music. India's diverse regional music scene flourished on Instagram, with tracks from various languages captivating audiences across the country. Haryanvi banger "Jale 2" amassed over 9.7 million reels, while Tamil hit "Aasa Kooda" garnered 1.8 million, showcasing the power of regional music to unite people. Even Bollywood tunes like "Tauba Tauba" and indie tracks like "Nadaaniyan" became popular choices for reel creators.
Nostalgia Meets New Blockbusters
The year 2024 was a perfect blend of nostalgia and new-age entertainment. The re-release of iconic films like "Rockstar" and "Laila Majnu" sparked a wave of nostalgia, while the 30th anniversary of "FRIENDS" and "Hera Pheri" memes kept instagrammers engaged. On the other hand, new releases like Mirzapur Season 3, Panchayat, and Laapataa Ladies, blew all the hearts, with the latter even making an Oscar bid.
Sports and Rising Stars Shine Bright
The year 2024 was a golden year for Indian sports. The Indian cricket team's T20 World Cup victory, Neeraj Chopra legendary javelin throws, and RCB's triumph in the inaugural Women's Premier League brought immense joy to fans across the nation.
Beyond sports, several individuals emerged as cultural icons on Instagram. Rapper Hanumankind, the fashionista Nancy Tyagi, Dolly Chai Wala, and the Vada Pao Girl became internet hot drops, shaping cultural conversations and inspiring millions in and around the globe.
2024 was a year of cultural trade for India, indeed
As we look back at this incredible year, it's clear that India's cultural renaissance is just beginning, and Instagram will continue to be at the forefront of this exciting journey.
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