Mumbai: Mumbai’s NSCI Dome transformed into a vibrant celebration of India’s creator culture as YouTube Fanfest 2025 brought together the country’s most influential digital stars for a night of electrifying performances, candid conversations, and surprise celebrity appearances. Hosted by Kusha Kapila, the event opened with a playful segment that set the tone for an evening where creators stepped out from behind their screens and into the spotlight.
From comedy and music to gaming and fashion, the show reflected the diversity and dynamism of India’s creator economy. Thugesh, Nirmal Pillai, and Abhishek Kumar delivered a live version of “Breaking Views,” drawing laughter and applause, especially when Farah Khan made a surprise appearance to decode Gen Z slang. Raunaq Rajani led a lively relationship panel with Lisa Mishra, Scout, GamerFleet, and Gurleen Pannu, engaging the audience in real-time polls and debates.
The night reached its peak when Varun Dhawan joined Dance with Alisha for a live performance of “Bijuria,” the viral track from his upcoming film Sunny Sanskari ki Tulsi Kumari. Sonu Nigam’s unexpected entry added vocal brilliance to the act, leaving the crowd in awe. Lisa Mishra’s emotional tribute to her YouTube journey, marking 18 years since her debut, resonated deeply with fans.
Emerging voices like Sharkshe, Sanju Rathod, and Divine closed the show with a teaser of Divine’s upcoming album Walking on Water, signaling the rise of new talent in India’s digital entertainment space. With over 20 creators performing live and millions tuning in online, YouTube Fanfest 2025 reaffirmed its role as a cultural phenomenon where creators are not just influencers—they are performers, storytellers, and icons of a new era.
