Influencer Niharika NM rumoured to join Vijay Sethupathi in Puri Jagannadh’s film

New Delhi: The South Indian film industry is buzzing with excitement as rumours swirl that popular content creator and actress Niharika NM may be joining Tamil superstar Vijay Sethupathi in director Puri Jagannadh’s highly anticipated pan-India film. 

While no official confirmation has been made, the speculation has ignited widespread interest among fans and industry insiders alike.

The yet-to-be-titled film, tentatively referred to as #PuriSethupathi, was announced on the occasion of Ugadi in March 2025. 

Directed by the celebrated Telugu filmmaker Puri Jagannadh, known for his high-octane commercial entertainers like Pokiri and Idiot, the project promises a multi-language release in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, and Hindi. 

Produced by Jagannadh and Charmme Kaur under their banner Puri Connects, the film is set to begin shooting in June 2025 and is already generating significant buzz for its star-studded cast.

According to reports, Niharika NM, who recently made her Tamil film debut in the Karthik Subbaraj-backed Perusu, is likely to play a pivotal role in the project. News reports suggest that her inclusion could mark her Telugu cinema debut, adding a fresh dynamic to the ensemble cast that already includes Vijay Sethupathi, Bollywood actress Tabu, and Kannada star Duniya Vijay. 

Niharika NM’s potential involvement has become a hot topic on social media, with fans praising her versatility as a content creator and actress. Her recent work in Perusu and her upcoming Tamil film Idhayam Murali, directed by Aakash Baskaran and starring Atharvaa, have already established her as a promising talent in the industry. If confirmed, her role in Jagannadh’s film could be a significant milestone in her acting career.

Several Indian content creators have successfully transitioned from digital platforms to the film industry, leveraging their massive online followings and creative skills to make a mark in cinema. 

Prajakta Koli, known as MostlySane, rose to fame with her relatable YouTube comedy sketches and debuted in Bollywood with Jug Jugg Jeeyo (2022), earning praise for her natural screen presence. 

Kusha Kapila, a popular Instagram and YouTube creator recognised for her humorous characters, ventured into films with roles in Ghost Stories (2020) and Sukhee (2023), showcasing her acting versatility. 

Dolly Singh, another YouTube and Instagram star, made her Bollywood debut with Double XL (2022), bringing her comedic flair to the big screen. 

These creators, initially known for their engaging digital content, have capitalised on the growing influence of social media and the rise of OTT platforms to secure acting opportunities in Hindi and regional cinema.

The trend extends beyond Bollywood, with creators like Harsh Beniwal, who gained fame through YouTube comedy skits, entering the industry with Student of the Year 2 (2019) and starring in the web series Campus Diaries (2022). 

Similarly, Bhuvan Bam, one of India’s biggest YouTubers with his channel BB Ki Vines, debuted as an actor in the OTT series Dhindora (2021) and is set to appear in the film Kaala Karikaalan (2025). 

These transitions highlight how the Indian film industry, including Bollywood, Tollywood, and OTT platforms, is increasingly embracing digital stars for their established fan bases and authentic storytelling, reshaping the landscape of entertainment.