Twenty-five year old Bhuvan Bam, the YouTube star, lists his Google Nexus as one of his best purchases because he began making his videos on it. And are we glad! The funnyman starred in a popular short film, Plus Minus, and even launched his own merchandise line called Youthiapa.
We take a peek at what his real life is like behind those one-liners on reel.
Your journey from BB Ki Vines to an actor
I was the funny kid in class; did a lot of drama, but never thought I could actually make a career out of comedy and acting! So BB Ki Vines has been a great platform for me, it connected me with a lot of people, and I could do what I love and even be a part of a film that won a Filmfare award. It's surreal!
It’s taken a lot of hard work, we’re sure. Where does the inspiration to create come from?
It’s the people around me; my friends and family, quirky people I’ve met, observed and known. I use all the fun and drama we have in our lives and turn it into a video. The topics are relatable, and so people enjoy the content. That’s what people tell me, hey that’s a character we can relate with!
Tell us about a funny incident that made you LOL
This one time, someone came up to me and asked for a picture and I obliged. Then he asked me what my name was and before I could answer, he said, “Acha choro, Facebook pe upload karunga toh pata chal jayega”.
Facepalm! We’re sure you’ve had some crazy fan encounters too…
OMG, there was this one time when I was walking out of a mall after a film and this girl comes up to me and starts sobbing. I’m befuddled, she’s sobbing and people are staring. I try to ask her what’s wrong, how can I help? She says she’s a huge fan and wants an autograph. I agree to do that. I sign in her book, but then things get weird. She wants me to sign her back. I get nervous because I don’t want to poke her, so I am being very careful and suddenly she says, “stab me!” I was so taken aback, I quickly signed on her back and ran away. It was crazy!
In moments like these, who is your voice of reason?
My family and friends. They are brutally honest with me, whether they agree with me or not. Our relationship has remained unchanged despite the popularity.
You’re a social media star. But who are you following on social media?
Will Smith, Shah Rukh Khan, Superwoman (Lily Singh), Karan Johar and sometimes even Rakhi Sawant, just for interesting content.
Comedy comes from a place in the heart and mind that is awakened, where does it rest, for you?
Comedy is about looking at everyday humour. For me, it’s my eyes that observe people and situations; my mind because I make them funnier and exaggerate them, and my heart because that what I put it into whatever I do.
And what else does your heart desire?
Seafood. It’s the best!
Any kitchen disasters to share?
I can’t even fill ice trays without dropping all the water, so…
An ingredient you could add to anything?
Salt
What are some things that sound like compliments but are actually insults?
A few times when I was at the airport, some people started calling me ‘Bancho Bancho’, and at the YouTube FanFest 15,000 people were chanting ‘Bancho Bancho’. I don’t want to be called Bancho, ha ha ha.
What quote or saying do people spout but is complete BS? (Like “Money can’t buy you love”)
“12th Kar Lo Phir Toh Aish Hai”
What’s the most useless talent you have?
I can bite my toenails.
And a celebrity crush?
Sara Ali Khan
What’s the most interesting thing you’ve read or seen this week?
I read my horoscope this week which said a lot about the incoming money. I don’t believe in horoscopes but this one time, I wish it comes true.
Any deep dark fear?
That all of this will go away someday
If you had a superpower...what would it be?
Reading people’s minds
What’s the weirdest question you’ve been asked?
Will you go on a date with me and my boyfriend?
What's your most embarrassing childhood memory?
I suffered a wardrobe malfunction in my school’s fancy dress competition. I was wearing a saree.
If you could…who would you like to collaborate with?
Cardi B and Atif Aslam.
And what’s on your current playlist?
Songs by Bruno Mars and John Mayer.