Ever wondered how your favourite creators started their journeys? For Viraj Ghelani & Ankush Bahuguna, the road wasn’t always glamorous. Before achieving their social media fame, both of them navigated their own unique paths, filled with relatable struggles, growth, and moments of self-discovery. Let’s dive into the world of Viraj & Ankush—two creators who prove that the journey is just as important as the destination, on Be A Man, Yaar! Season 2 by Nikhil Taneja.
Viraj’s First Gig: From Birthday Parties To Cannes
Before joining FilterCopy, Viraj was no stranger to the stage. His journey began by hosting small events like sangeet ceremonies, birthday parties, and private events, roughly around 150 of them! The energy of the crowd, the adrenaline of keeping people entertained—it was a hustle that prepared him for the big leagues. These gigs gave him the confidence & skill set to handle the spotlight at Cannes & in Bollywood movies.
Also Read: Bhuvan Bam Opens His Heart On Be A Man Yaar S2
While he is A1 shining in front of crowds, he also took on major responsibilities at home. As the (unsaid) head of his family, he proudly stepped into the role of a father figure. He shared an instance, “Jo mujhe nahi mil paya, wo main apne bhai ko dena chahta hoon.” Seeing his younger brother go to his friends’ house to play on the PS5 every day made him feel insecure, thinking his brother should have one too. So, as Viraj started earning well, he decided to buy a PS5 for his younger brother.
Ankush’s Childhood Struggles
Ankush Bahuguna’s childhood wasn’t all smooth sailing. Growing up, he faced the pressure to fit into stereotypical boy roles—like playing cricket or football and following in his father’s footsteps with sports and bodybuilding. But Ankush was interested in performing arts, instead of traditionally ‘masculine’ activities. A turning point came when he participated in a “Panja” (arm wrestling) competition in school, and the results left him questioning his strength. His classmates teased him, telling him to go play with the girls. But jokes on them—Ankush ended up having a ton of female friends, which helped him in the long haul.
Viraj’s Journey Without Dad
Nikhil asked Viraj what it was like growing up without a father. For Viraj, it was about balancing respect & prestige for his mother while enjoying his life as a young adult. He was careful to never let people say, “Baap nahi tha, single mother thi na toh beta bigad gaya.” To this day, Viraj doesn’t drink, a choice driven by his desire to avoid giving anyone a reason to point fingers at his mother. But like any young adult, he did manage to balance some fun along the way.
When Palak Khimavat (his fiancée) entered Viraj’s life, things shifted for the better (a cherry on top). He felt comforted by her ability to listen and support him during both his good and bad times. In his words, “Palak was the boost he needed to keep going, and her support has meant everything to him.”When Palak Khimavat (his fiancée) entered Viraj’s life, things shifted for the better (a cherry on top). He felt comforted by her ability to listen and support him during both his good and bad times. In his words, “Palak was the boost I needed to keep going, and her support has meant everything to me.”
Ankush’s Breakthrough In College
Ankush, being the youngest in a family of five, often felt like his problems were never heard. He was used to bottling up his emotions, leaving him feeling distant during his childhood. But growing up and finding his voice helped him break out of that shell.
Ankush’s turning point came during his time in architecture school. The open and creative environment allowed him to explore his talent for writing scripts, and his friend’s feedback—”Tu toh bohot funny hai!” boosted his confidence. Growing up with his mother, Manju Bahuguna, who was a regional actress, Ankush’s talent for performing was practically in his DNA.
Viraj & Ankush Are The Gossip Kings
Who says guys don’t gossip? Teaming up with Viraj on this, Ankush debunked that myth, admitting they love a good gossip session. “Ladke jyada gossip karte hai!” they both added in, proving that sometimes the best tea is spilled by men! Who would’ve thought?
Wait wait wait, there’s more to it! Did you know? Viraj & Ankush are also lifelong people pleasers. Viraj, in particular, couldn’t stand the thought of someone not liking him. He’s still learning to balance this, especially when encountering alpha personalities. But he’s upfront about it & continues to grow from the experience.
“Women Want To Know”
In this segment, Bhavna Yagnik asked Ankush what advice he’d give to men on being a green flag. His response? “Listen to the women around you, that’s it!” Simple but powerful advice.
For Viraj, Palak challenged the clichés of masculinity with her question. Viraj doesn’t shy away from expressing his emotions, even wearing pink (in the episode too) to defy gender norms.
Men Complimenting Men
In the creative economy, Ankush and Viraj have found a strong support system. Artists and creators like Hoezaay a.k.a José Covaco, Siddharth Batra, Prit Kamani, and others have stood by their side, offering the encouragement they needed while growing in this industry. It’s a reminder that when men uplift each other, the journey becomes even more rewarding.
Viraj & Ankush may have started from humble beginnings, but their journey is a testament to the power of staying true to yourself, embracing your quirks, and leaning on those who lift you up. The boys have come a long way, and this is only the beginning!
Did you watch the episode yet? Go watch now!
