Inside India’s first ‘Instagram Village’ in Chhattisgarh

Our country is full of surprises and is considered a gem when it comes to incredible destinations perfect for tourists. But recently, a lesser-known village in Chhattisgarh is attracting offbeat visitors and social media influencers because of its digital revolution.
Let’s find out more about Tulsi
Not many must be aware that the village named Tulsi in Chhattisgarh is also known as the ‘Instagram Village of India’ because of its blooming content creation economy. As per reports, about 25% of its 4000 residents are digital content producers in the village. In fact, that’s their full time job and digital media has certainly transformed their lives and boosted the local economy.
Location and more
Tulsi is located close to Raipur, the capital city of Chhattisgarh. What’s unique about this village is that be it young kids or old adults, every person you meet here is passionate about creating online content and can be seen making videos anywhere in the village. Some of these content creators also have good cameras and required equipment to shoot a video.
Today, Tulsi stands as a living example of how the digital media can change a quiet village into a digital content capital of India.
Being Chhattisgarhiya: the story behind
It all started back in 2018, when two locals Jai and Gyanendra Shukla began their YouTube channel called Being Chhattisgarhiya. In no time, the channel got quite popular and that’s how other villagers got the inspiration to explore social media platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, among others. Today, this hobby for some has become a livelihood for many in the village.
A dedicated studio by government

Soon after the popularity of the village, the city government recognised the potential of digital content in the village, and stepped in to support the creators. Today, there is a dedicated studio in the village where locals shoot and edit content. This initiative has been a game-changer, and is also helping budding influencers to produce engaging videos and boosting Tulsi's reputation as a hub for creative content creators.
It’s interesting to see that the villagers are all together in this. They gather at the village chaupal and discuss their story ideas and brainstorming is done to improve the concepts. They also decide on the cast for each video. You’ll be shocked to know that Tulsi alone has more than 40 YouTube channels and some of the YouTubers here reportedly earn between INR 20,000 and INR 40,000, which is commendable!
With technological advancement, villages like Tulsi are becoming a model for other smaller communities and for the world as well!