Chello Meme, an influencer from Arunachal Pradesh, recently captivated audiences on India's Got Latent 2, securing a ₹1 lakh prize. While her appearance on the show has significantly boosted her online following, her journey to national recognition began years earlier with a courageous act that resonated across social media.
The Viral Moment That Sparked a Movement
In 2021, at just 19 years old and a Political Science student, Chello Meme found herself at the center of a viral incident at the Inter-State Bus Terminus (ISBT) in Guwahati. Traveling through Assam en route to New Delhi for the National Youth Parliament, she alleged that a man named Shafikul Rehman had repeatedly touched her inappropriately.
Refusing to stay silent, Chello confronted Rehman as he attempted to leave, publicly calling out his behavior. Footage of the confrontation, where he eventually apologized with folded hands, quickly spread online. The internet lauded her bravery and refusal to tolerate harassment, transforming her into an overnight sensation.
From Youth Parliament to Prime Ministerial Praise
Prior to her viral fame, Chello had already distinguished herself by winning Arunachal Pradesh's State Youth Parliament, earning her a spot at the national event. There, she continued to make an impact, delivering a speech on the vision of an 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India).
Her passionate address caught the attention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who shared her video on X (formerly Twitter) in January 2021, praising her dedication and wishing her well. This endorsement further amplified her profile, highlighting the determination of young Indians.
I am glad to see the passion among our youth to fulfil the dream of an Aatmanirbhar Bharat. Know what Chello Meme from Arunachal Pradesh has to say... I wish her the very best for her future endeavours.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 12, 2021
India's Got Latent 2 and Beyond
Chello Meme's recent appearance on India's Got Latent 2 marked another significant milestone. She impressed host Samay Raina with her sharp wit and humor, even delivering a bold roast aimed directly at him. Her win, announced on Saturday, August 29, cemented her status as a multifaceted talent.
The show also significantly boosted her social media presence. Her Instagram followers grew from approximately 77,000 before the program to roughly 106,000, demonstrating the enduring impact of her story and personality. Chello Meme's journey exemplifies how courage and conviction, combined with talent, can lead to widespread recognition and influence.