Prajakta Koli’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and an unwavering determination to make her mark on the world. From humble beginnings as a quirky YouTuber making observational comedy videos, she has transformed into a multifaceted artist, actress, writer, and social activist, inspiring millions along the way.
Prajakta Koli: The Early Days And Personal life
Born in Thane, Maharashtra, Prajakta’s love for entertainment and humour was evident from a young age. As a child, she dreamed of becoming a radio jockey and loved taking part in debates and elocutions at her school, Vasant Vihar High School. She had no idea that her path would change and lead her to the exciting world of digital content creation.
In February 2015, Prajakta took a brave step and started her YouTube channel, MostlySane.
With her relatable and witty observations on everyday life situations, she quickly captured the hearts of viewers, amassing a dedicated following. Her unique brand of observational comedy struck a chord with audiences, who found solace and laughter in her relatable narratives.
The Rise to YouTube Stardom
Prajakta’s ascent to stardom was nothing short of meteoric. Her videos garnered millions of views, and she soon became a household name in the Indian digital content space. Her performances at YouTube FanFests in Delhi, Mumbai, and Singapore cemented her status as a beloved internet sensation, earning her a dedicated fanbase affectionately known as the “Mostly Fam.”
One of her most significant achievements on YouTube was the “Real Talk Tuesday” series, where she hosted candid conversations with global icons and celebrities. From interviewing former YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki and Hollywood stars like Brie Larson and Samuel L. Jackson, to thought-provoking discussions with spiritual leader Sadhguru and comedy legends Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston, Prajakta’s ability to connect with her guests and extract insightful stories was truly remarkable.
Prajakta Koli: Expanding Horizons- Acting and Writing
Prajakta isn’t just great at comedy videos; she’s also a talented actress. In 2020, she started acting with the lead role in the Netflix series “Mismatched.” Her natural charm and strong on-screen presence impressed viewers, earning her a lot of praise and more acting opportunities.
In 2022, Prajakta joined the star-studded cast of the Bollywood film “Jugjugg Jeeyo,” showcasing her versatility and cementing her status as a rising star in the Indian entertainment industry. Her latest project, the Zee Theatre teleplay “Yeh Shaadi Nahi Ho Sakti,” further exemplified her acting prowess and ability to tackle diverse roles.
Prajakta’s love for storytelling also manifested in her foray into writing. She is currently authoring a romance fiction novel, “Too Good To Be True,” which marks her debut as a fiction writer. With publishing rights secured by Harper Collins, this venture showcases her versatility beyond digital content creation.
Prajakta Koli: Social Impact and Advocacy
Beyond her artistic pursuits, Prajakta has used her platform to champion important social causes and initiate meaningful conversations. In 2016, she launched the #iPledgeToBeMe campaign, addressing mental health, well-being, and body shaming. Her rap song “Shameless,” featuring Raftaar, RJ Malishka, and Mithila Palkar, became an anthem for self-acceptance and body positivity.
Prajakta’s commitment to social impact has earned her recognition on global platforms. In 2018, she was invited to the United Nations headquarters in New York City as an ambassador for YouTube’s Creators for Change program, where she highlighted issues such as hate speech, sexism, and homophobia through her project ‘No Offence.’
In 2019, she participated in the #GirlsCount campaign for One.Org, advocating for the importance of girls’ education. Her involvement with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation’s Goalkeepers program further showcased her dedication to advancing global goals and fostering positive change.
Climate Change Activism and Recognition
In recent years, Prajakta has emerged as a powerful voice in the fight against climate change. In 2020, she joined forces with Michelle Obama, Liza Koshy, and Thembe Mahlaba for a special episode of Creators For Change, raising awareness about the importance of girls’ education in the face of global challenges.
In 2021, Prajakta contributed to TED’s ‘Countdown’ campaign, collaborating with influential figures like Al Gore, Chris Hemsworth, Priyanka Chopra, Mark Ruffalo, and Don Cheadle to address the pressing issue of climate change.
Her unwavering commitment to environmental causes led to her appointment as UNDP India’s first Youth Climate Champion in 2022. In this role, she interacts with young minds, creating awareness about the adverse impacts of climate change, global warming, and biodiversity loss.
Prajakta’s activism and influence were further recognized in 2023 when she attended the World Economic Forum in Davos, participating in discussions on critical themes such as climate action, social justice, and global healthcare.
In a remarkable achievement, Prajakta was honored as the Climate Influencer of the Year by India’s leading media conglomerate NDTV for their flagship awards “Indian Of The Year” in 2024. This prestigious accolade highlights her significant contributions to raising awareness and driving positive change in the realm of environmental sustainability.
Collaborations and Commercial Ventures
Prajakta’s versatility has extended beyond her artistic endeavors, as she has collaborated with some of the biggest names in the Indian entertainment industry. Her partnerships with commercial Bollywood actors such as Hrithik Roshan, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Vicky Kaushal, and Kajol have showcased her ability to seamlessly adapt to diverse projects and audiences.
In the realm of audio entertainment, Prajakta has lent her voice to Audible’s original podcasts. She was a part of the series “Desi Down Under,” set in Sydney, and will soon be voicing the Marvel character Ash Barton in the Hindi adaptation of “Wastelanders,” alongside other Bollywood stars like Saif Ali Khan, Kareena Kapoor, and Sharad Kelkar.
Prajakta’s commercial ventures have also extended to advertising campaigns, such as her involvement in WhatsApp’s “Share Joy, Not Rumours” campaign, aimed at raising user awareness about tackling misinformation on social media.
Prajakta Koli: Awards and Recognition
Prajakta’s exceptional contributions have not gone unnoticed. She has been recognized by prestigious publications and organizations, solidifying her status as a trailblazer and inspiration to many.
In 2019, she was featured in Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list, Outlook Business Magazine’s list of Women of Worth, and Entrepreneur India’s 35 Under 35 list. She also won Cosmopolitan’s YouTuber of the Year award, cementing her position as a force to be reckoned with in the digital content space.
In subsequent years, Prajakta has graced the covers of renowned magazines like Grazia India and BW Businessworld, being recognized for her influence and impact.
In 2022, she received an award from Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and the High Commissioner of Canada in India, recognizing her efforts in supporting women’s causes during International Women’s Day. Additionally, she was awarded the “Star Influencer Award” by Femina India, further highlighting her status as a role model and influencer.
Prajakta Koli: The Journey Continues
Prajakta Koli’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, hard work, and a willingness to adapt and evolve. From her humble beginnings as a quirky YouTuber to becoming a multitalented artist, actress, writer, social activist, and climate change advocate, she has defied expectations and shattered barriers along the way.
Her ability to seamlessly transition between various artistic mediums, while simultaneously using her platform to champion important causes, has earned her a dedicated fanbase and the respect of her peers.
As Prajakta continues to explore new avenues and push boundaries, one thing is certain: her inspiring story will continue to motivate and empower generations to come, leaving an indelible mark on the entertainment industry and beyond.
Films
| Year | Title | Role |
| 2020 | Khayali Pulao | Asha |
| 2022 | Jugjugg Jeeyo | Ginny Saini |
| 2023 | Yeh Shaadi Nahi Ho Sakti | Priya |
| 2023 | Neeyat | Gigi “Cub Kumar” |
Web Series
| Year | Title | Role |
| 2020–present | Mismatched | Dimple Ahuja |
| 2021 | Comedy Premium League | Host |
Awards and Recognition
| Year | Award | Category | Work | Result |
| 2021 | Daytime Emmy Awards | Outstanding Daytime Non-Fiction Special | Documentary – Creators For Change | Won |
| 2023 | Bollywood Hungama Style Icons | Most Stylish Digital Entertainer (Female) | — | Won |
| 2023 | Filmfare Awards | Best Female Debut | Jugjugg Jeeyo | Nominated |
| 2024 | Bollywood Hungama Style Icons | Most Stylish Digital Star of the Year | — | Won |
Conclusion
Prajakta Koli’s inspiring journey underscores the power of creativity, resilience, and the importance of using one’s influence for positive change. Her story continues to inspire and motivate countless individuals, ensuring her lasting legacy in the entertainment industry and beyond.
