(Mohan Bhulani, NTI) : Ankush Bahuguna is a multifaceted Indian actor and social media influencer who has gained immense popularity through his short videos on platforms such as Instagram and YouTube. Known for his comedic timing and creative content, he has carved out a niche for himself in the entertainment industry. He has worked with networks like MensXP and Restless Mind and was honored with the TLG Bloggers and Social Media Big Entertainment Award in 2020.
Born on February 22, 1993, in New Delhi, India, Ankush Bahuguna is currently 29 years old as of 2022. He belongs to a middle-class Hindu family and is very close to his mother, whom he has featured in several of his videos. His zodiac sign is Pisces, and he stands at 5’11” (1.81 m) tall. Ankush had two elder sisters, one of whom, Aisha Bahuguna, tragically passed away at the age of 36 due to kidney failure.
Ankush completed his primary education at Ahlcon Public School in New Delhi. Known for being a shy child, he pursued higher education in architecture at the Sushant School of Art and Architecture. After graduation, he briefly worked as a sales manager at AIECES before transitioning to the world of content creation.
Ankush began his career by creating short videos on TikTok and later moved to Instagram following the platform’s ban in India. His content ranges from humorous skits to beauty and makeup tutorials, showcasing his versatility as a creator. His YouTube channel, which he launched in 2009, has amassed over 250,000 subscribers, while his Instagram boasts more than 940,000 followers. He also has a dedicated page for makeup content, “Wing It With Ankush Bahuguna,” which has over 200,000 followers.
Ankush’s acting debut came with the television series Project Kahuta, which explores a significant espionage operation conducted by India’s Research and Analysis Wing. His journey from content creation to acting demonstrates his wide-ranging talents and appeal.
Ankush gained widespread attention for his short, humorous videos with MensXP, where he played memorable characters like “Pankaz.” His comedic style, combined with his ability to embody different personas, quickly made him a viral sensation. His character “Pankaz” has even interviewed celebrities like Bhumi Pednekar, Sushant Singh Rajput, and Mithila Palkar, adding to his rising popularity.
Notable Projects and Achievements
Over the years, Ankush Bahuguna has been part of several exciting projects:
- Joint Venture (2019): A web series about two best friends, Ankush and Shibani Bedi, who start a business catering to marijuana users. The series humorously explores their attempts to launch a startup while dealing with the challenges that come with it.
- Wing It With Ankush (2020): Ankush’s makeup-focused Instagram page, which breaks traditional gender stereotypes and promotes beauty inclusivity. He has been praised for his makeup tutorials, where he applies makeup not only to himself but also to his friends, sister, and mother. His page is a vibrant, colorful space for makeup enthusiasts, and he was recognized as the Cosmopolitan Male Beauty Influencer of the Year in 2022.
- Almost (2020): A short film directed by Ankush, exploring a breakup over video chat during the lockdown. The film, co-starring Shibani Bedi, highlights the emotional turmoil of ending a relationship in a mature, empathetic manner.
- Chalo Koi Baat Nahi (2021): A Hindi sketch comedy series on SonyLIV, where Ankush appeared alongside comedians Vinay Pathak and Ranvir Shorey. The show humorously reflects on various aspects of Indian society, from media to education and the environment.
- Badboli Bhavna (2022): This Amazon miniTV short film delves into the life of Bhavna, a rising social media star, and her introverted husband Sankalp, portrayed by Ankush. The story examines the impact of social media on personal relationships, with Ankush’s performance as the reserved Sankalp winning praise.
- The Gentleman Show (2022): A podcast by The Man Company, hosted by Ankush, that sparks conversations about male grooming, fashion, relationships, and breaking stereotypes around masculinity.
- Project Kahuta (2022): His film debut, centered on India’s covert intelligence operation against Pakistan’s top-secret nuclear program. This marked Ankush’s transition into mainstream acting.
Breaking Stereotypes with Makeup
One of Ankush’s most significant contributions to social media is his effort to break gender stereotypes through his makeup content. With “Wing It With Ankush,” he challenges societal norms and promotes a nonjudgmental space for men to explore skincare and makeup. His unique take on beauty has resonated with a wide audience, making him a pioneer in the male beauty influencer space in India.
Personal Life and Legacy
Ankush’s journey is not just about fame and success; it’s also about breaking barriers and fostering inclusivity. He has used his platform to promote important social conversations, whether it’s about beauty standards, mental health, or societal expectations. His story is one of determination, creativity, and courage in stepping into uncharted territory.
As of 2022, Ankush Bahuguna’s net worth is estimated at around $2.5 million (approximately INR 20 crores), with his income primarily coming from his acting gigs, YouTube channel, and social media endorsements. His monthly earnings are estimated to be around INR 3-4 lakhs.
Ankush Bahuguna’s rise to fame showcases how talent, perseverance, and authenticity can lead to success in both the digital and traditional entertainment worlds. Whether through his makeup tutorials, comedy sketches, or acting performances, Ankush continues to inspire a generation of creators and fans alike.
