The digital landscape is ever-evolving, and social media platforms like Instagram have become the new stage where fame and influence are measured. In India, where Bollywood stars and cricket legends are household names, Instagram followers are a testament to their popularity and reach. Recently, a significant shift occurred in the ranking of the most followed Indians on Instagram, with Bollywood actress Shraddha Kapoor making headlines.
Shraddha Kapoor Surpasses PM Modi on Instagram
Shraddha Kapoor’s recent cinematic success with Stree 2 has catapulted her into the spotlight, not just at the box office but also on social media. The actress, known for her versatile roles and charming personality, recently overtook Prime Minister Narendra Modi to become the third most-followed Indian on Instagram. With 91.5 million followers, she now trails only behind cricket icon Virat Kohli and global star Priyanka Chopra.
The Top 10 Most Followed Indians on Instagram
Instagram is a platform where numbers speak volumes. Here’s a look at the top 10 most-followed Indians on Instagram as of August 2024:
- Virat Kohli – 271 million followers
The captain of Indian cricket, Virat Kohli, reigns supreme on Instagram. His massive following is a reflection of his immense popularity both on and off the field. - Priyanka Chopra – 91.8 million followers
Priyanka Chopra, an actress with a global appeal, continues to hold her place as one of the top influencers in India. - Shraddha Kapoor – 91.5 million followers
The Stree 2 actress, Shraddha Kapoor, has seen a surge in followers, making her the third most-followed Indian. - Prime Minister Narendra Modi – 91.3 million followers
While Shraddha Kapoor may have edged ahead on Instagram, PM Modi remains one of the most influential figures on social media, with a particularly strong presence on X (formerly Twitter). - Alia Bhatt – 85.1 million followers
Alia Bhatt, another Bollywood sensation, ranks fifth, showcasing her widespread appeal. - Katrina Kaif – 80.4 million followers
Known for her beauty and acting prowess, Katrina Kaif continues to maintain a strong fanbase on Instagram. - Deepika Padukone – 79.8 million followers
Deepika Padukone, with her elegance and poise, has a significant following, placing her seventh on the list. - Neha Kakkar – 78.7 million followers
The queen of playback singing, Neha Kakkar, commands a massive following, reflecting her popularity in the music industry. - Urvashi Rautela – 73 million followers
Model and actress Urvashi Rautela rounds out the top 10, with a strong Instagram presence fueled by her fashion-forward posts.
Virat Kohli: The King of Instagram
Virat Kohli’s dominance on Instagram is unparalleled. With 271 million followers, he not only leads the list in India but also ranks among the most-followed sports personalities globally. His posts, which range from workout videos to candid moments with his family, resonate with a wide audience, making him a social media sensation.
Priyanka Chopra: A Global Icon
Priyanka Chopra’s influence extends far beyond Bollywood. With 91.8 million followers, she is a global icon who has successfully transitioned from Indian cinema to Hollywood. Her posts often reflect her international lifestyle, philanthropic efforts, and her role as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.
The Rise of Shraddha Kapoor
Shraddha Kapoor’s leap to the third position on this list is a testament to her growing popularity. Her portrayal in Stree 2 has been widely praised, and the movie’s success has certainly boosted her social media following. Stree 2, directed by Amar Kaushik, is the sequel to the 2018 hit Stree and has been performing exceptionally well at the box office, inching closer to the ₹300 crore mark globally.
PM Modi’s Influence on Social Media
Although Shraddha Kapoor has overtaken him on Instagram, PM Narendra Modi remains the most-followed global leader on X (formerly Twitter). With around 56.6 million followers on X as of August 2024, he surpasses many other world leaders, including US President Joe Biden and Dubai’s Sheikh Mohammed. PM Modi’s social media strategy is widely regarded as one of the most effective, allowing him to communicate directly with the public.
The Success of Stree 2 and Its Impact
Stree 2 has not only boosted Shraddha Kapoor’s Instagram following but also solidified her status as one of Bollywood’s leading actresses. The film, produced by Maddock Films and directed by Amar Kaushik, was released in theaters on August 15, 2024. Starring alongside Rajkummar Rao, Shraddha Kapoor’s performance has been praised by critics and audiences alike. The film’s box office success is a testament to its widespread appeal, and it is poised to join the ₹300 crore club, a rare feat for a female-led film.
Conclusion: The Ever-Changing Landscape of Social Media Influence
The list of the top 10 most popular Indians on Instagram is a snapshot of how quickly fame and influence can shift in the digital age. Shraddha Kapoor’s rise in the rankings highlights the impact of cinematic success on social media, while figures like Virat Kohli and Priyanka Chopra continue to dominate. As the digital world continues to evolve, these rankings may shift again, reflecting the dynamic nature of celebrity influence on platforms like Instagram.