Prajakta Koli AKA MostlySane: The Journey of a YouTube Sensation and 7 Unknown Facts About Her
Prajakta Koli AKA MostlySane, known widely by her YouTube channel MostlySane, is a renowned Indian YouTuber and actress. Born on June 27, 1993, she has garnered immense popularity for her observational comedy videos that depict everyday life situations. Besides her successful YouTube career, she is also known for her lead role in the Netflix romantic drama “Mismatched.”
Early and Personal Life of Prajakta Koli
Childhood and Education
Prajakta Koli AKA MostlySane was born and raised in Thane, a suburb of Mumbai, Maharashtra. From a young age, she was captivated by the world of radio, aspiring to become a radio jockey since she was in Class 6. This passion led her to participate actively in school debates and elocution contests during her time at Vasant Vihar High School in Thane. Prajakta pursued higher education at V. G. Vaze College of Arts, Science and Commerce in Mulund, affiliated with the University of Mumbai, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Mass Media.
Family Background
Prajakta’s family has played a significant role in shaping her career. Her father, Manoj Koli, transitioned from being a real-estate businessman to a restaurateur, while her mother, Archana Koli, works as a phonetics and language teacher. The support from her family has been a cornerstone in her journey towards success.
Personal Relationships
In 2011, Prajakta Koli AKA MostlySane started dating Vrishank Khanal, a lawyer. The couple’s relationship has been a steady one, culminating in their engagement on September 17, 2023, which they announced to their fans and followers on social media.
Personal Stats
Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Birthdate | June 27, 1993 |
| Birthplace | Thane, Mumbai |
| Height | 165 cm (5’ 5”) |
| Fiancé | Vrishank Khanal |
| Education | Bachelor of Mass Media |
| Father | Manoj Koli |
| Mother | Archana Koli |
| Occupation | YouTuber, Actress |
| YouTube Channel | MostlySane |
| Notable Works | Mismatched, Jugjugg Jeeyo, Neeyat |
Prajakta Koli’s Career
Early Career
Radio Jockey
Prajakta Koli’s initial foray into the media industry was through an internship at Fever 104 FM, a prominent radio station in Mumbai. After a year of interning, she was entrusted with her own show, Call Centre. Despite her enthusiasm and effort, the show did not perform well commercially, leading her to quit the radio channel. However, this experience proved to be a learning curve that would eventually steer her towards digital content creation.
Transition to YouTube
During her stint at Fever 104 FM, Prajakta Koli met Sudeep Lahiri, who would later become the Vice President of Content and Strategy at One Digital Entertainment. Lahiri recognized Prajakta’s potential and encouraged her to start a comedy YouTube channel. This advice was pivotal, leading to the creation of MostlySane in February 2015.
YouTube Channel: MostlySane
Content and Growth
Prajakta Koli’s YouTube channel, MostlySane, quickly gained popularity for its relatable and humorous content. She focuses primarily on observational comedy, drawing inspiration from everyday situations and societal norms. Her regular upload schedule, including ‘RealTalk Tuesday,’ ‘Comedy video on Thursday,’ and ‘SawaalSaturday,’ helped her build a loyal audience.
Major Milestones
- YouTube FanFest: Prajakta Koli’s popularity was evident when she performed at the YouTube FanFest in Delhi in 2018 and in Mumbai in 2019. Her rising fame also saw her hosting the event in Singapore in 2022 and in Mumbai in 2023.
- Pretty Fit: In 2020, Prajakta Koli announced her YouTube Originals show, Pretty Fit. The first episode was released on January 21, 2020. The show features Koli interviewing celebrities like Kareena Kapoor, Neha Kakkar, and Sanya Malhotra, who perform various physical fitness tasks.
- RealTalkTuesday Series: This series has featured high-profile interviews, including a notable conversation with former YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki in April 2019. Other significant interviews include Hollywood stars Brie Larson and Samuel L. Jackson in March 2019, spiritual leader Sadhguru in April 2022, and actors Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston in March 2023.
Acting Career
Khayali Pulao
Prajakta Koli’s acting debut was in the short film Khayali Pulao, released in July 2020. The film focuses on female empowerment in rural Haryana, and Prajakta’s portrayal of Asha was both powerful and poignant.
Mismatched
In November 2020, Prajakta Koli starred in the Netflix series Mismatched, playing the lead role of Dimple Ahuja. The series was well-received and further established her as a versatile entertainer. She continued her role in the second season released in 2022.
Jugjugg Jeeyo
In 2022, Prajakta Koli made her Bollywood debut with Dharma Productions’ film Jugjugg Jeeyo, playing the role of Ginny. This role showcased her ability to transition seamlessly from digital content to mainstream cinema.
Yeh Shaadi Nahi Ho Sakti
In 2023, Prajakta Koli headlined the Zee Theatre teleplay Yeh Shaadi Nahi Ho Sakti, directed by Akarsh Khurana. Her performance received positive reviews, adding another feather to her acting cap.
Neeyat
Later in 2023, Prajakta Koli appeared in Anu Menon’s mystery film Neeyat, alongside prominent actors like Vidya Balan and Ram Kapoor. Her role as Gigi “Cub Kumar” was well-received by audiences and critics alike.
Future Projects
She will next be seen in a horror show titled Unseen, produced by Excel Entertainment for Prime Video, further expanding her acting repertoire.
Audible Podcast
She has also ventured into podcasting. She was part of a nine-episode Audible series, Desi Down Under, which follows three 20-year-olds from Mangalore who go to Australia to learn surf-lifesaving skills. She also voiced the Marvel character Ash Barton in the Hindi adaptation of Marvel’s Wastelanders, alongside celebrities like Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor.
Advertisements
She has been featured in several national TV commercials, including the 2018 WhatsApp campaign ‘Share Joy, Not Rumours,’ which aimed to tackle misinformation on the social media platform.
Writing
Adding to her list of achievements, She is authoring a romance fiction novel, “Too Good To Be True,” with publishing rights acquired by Harper Collins. This venture marks her debut as a fiction writer, showcasing her versatility beyond digital content creation.
Media Recognition and Awards
She has received numerous accolades for her work:
- Forbes’ 30 Under 30: In February 2019, she was included in Forbes’ list of 30 under 30, recognizing her impact in the digital space.
- Outlook Business Magazine: She was featured in their list of Women of Worth in 2019.
- Entrepreneur India: She made it to their list of 35 under 35 in 2019.
- Cosmopolitan’s YouTuber of the Year: Prajakta Koli won this award in 2019.
- Grazia India: In January 2020, she was listed in their annual “Cool List.”
- BW Businessworld: In April 2020, she was featured on the cover of the magazine as part of their Most Influential Women list.
- Femina India: In June 2022, she received the “Star Influencer Award.”
- NDTV’s Climate Influencer of the Year: In March 2024, she was honored with this award during NDTV’s flagship awards “Indian Of The Year.”
Social Initiatives
#iPledgeToBeMe Campaign
On World Mental Health Day in 2016, Prajakta AKA MostlySane launched the #iPledgeToBeMe campaign, addressing mental health issues, well-being, and body shaming. She shared her own experiences with body shaming and released a rap song titled “Shameless” in May 2017, featuring Raftaar, RJ Malishka, and Mithila Palkar.
United Nations and Global Initiatives
Prajakta’s influence extends beyond India. In 2018, she was invited to the United Nations headquarters in New York on the occasion of International Day of Tolerance as an ambassador for YouTube’s global initiative, Creators for Change. She showcased her project ‘No Offence,’ which tackled topics such as hate speech, sexism, and homophobia.
In 2020, she participated in a special episode of Creators for Change alongside Liza Koshy and Thembe Mahlaba, interviewing girls from different countries about their educational opportunities and discussing the topic with Michelle Obama.
Climate Advocacy
The YouTuber is a strong advocate for climate action. In October 2021, she contributed to TED’s ‘Countdown’ campaign, addressing climate change. She collaborated with personalities like Al Gore, Chris Hemsworth, and Priyanka Chopra to raise awareness about the issue.
In January 2022, she was appointed as UNDP India’s first Youth Climate Champion, tasked with creating awareness among young people about the adverse impacts of climate change, global warming, and biodiversity loss.
World Economic Forum
In January 2023, She attended the World Economic Forum in Davos, where she participated in discussions on climate action, social justice, and global healthcare. As one of six content creators invited globally, her presence underscored her influence and commitment to these critical issues.
Women’s Empowerment
On International Women’s Day in March 2023, the National Commission for Women honored Prajakta Koli with the ‘National Women’s Award’ for her work in the field of women’s empowerment. This recognition was a testament to her efforts in promoting gender equality and empowering women through her platform.
Lesser-Known Facts About Prajakta Koli AKA MostlySane
- Early Career: Before finding fame on YouTube, Prajakta worked as a radio jockey, but her show did not fare well, prompting her shift to digital content creation.
- Personal Transformation: Prajakta is a strong advocate for mental health, often sharing her personal struggles with body image and self-acceptance.
- Voice Acting: Besides her visual content, she has contributed her voice to the Hindi adaptation of Marvel’s Wastelanders, portraying the character Ash Barton.
- Culinary Interest: Her father owns a restaurant, which has influenced her interest in food and cooking.
- Early Passion for Performing: From a young age, she was deeply involved in school debates and elocution competitions, setting the stage for her later career in media and entertainment.
Prajakta Koli’s Filmography
Films
- 2020: Khayali Pulao (Role: Asha)
- 2022: Jugjugg Jeeyo (Role: Ginny)
- 2023: Yeh Shaadi Nahi Ho Sakti, Neeyat (Role: Gigi “Cub Kumar”)
Web Series
- 2020-2022: Mismatched (Role: Dimple Ahuja)
Podcast
- Desi Down Under: A nine-episode series available on Audible.
- Marvel’s Wastelanders: Voice role in the Hindi adaptation.
Social Media Influence
Prajakta’s influence extends beyond YouTube. Her Instagram account is a vibrant mix of personal moments, professional updates, and advocacy work. She uses her platform to connect with her fans, share her journey, and promote social causes.
- YouTube: MostlySane
- Instagram: @mostlysane
- Facebook: @MostlySaneOfficial
- Snapchat: @prajaktakoli
- X: @iamMostlySane
Conclusion
Prajakta Koli’s journey from a radio jockey to a YouTube sensation and accomplished actress is a testament to her talent, hard work, and unwavering commitment to her dreams. Her ability to connect with audiences through relatable content, her versatility as an actress, and her advocacy for important social causes have made her a beloved figure in the digital space. As she continues to break new ground, Prajakta Koli remains an inspiration to many aspiring creators and a shining example of the power of digital media.
FAQs About Prajakta Koli AKA MostlySane
1. Who is Prajakta Koli?
Prajakta Koli, popularly known as MostlySane, is an Indian YouTuber, actress, and social media influencer renowned for her observational comedy videos and relatable content on YouTube. She has gained immense popularity due to her unique style of humor and her ability to connect with a broad audience through her videos.
2. What is the origin of the name MostlySane?
The name MostlySane reflects Prajakta Koli’s personality and content style. It signifies her attempt to stay sane amidst the chaos of life. The name is a playful nod to the fact that while she strives to be rational and balanced, she is also relatable and human, often sharing the quirks and imperfections that make her content so engaging.
3. When did Prajakta Koli start her YouTube channel?
Prajakta Koli started her YouTube channel, MostlySane, in February 2015. She ventured into the world of YouTube after her stint as a radio jockey, driven by her passion for content creation and her desire to reach a wider audience through digital media.
4. What type of content does Prajakta Koli create on YouTube?
Prajakta Koli creates observational comedy videos that cover a wide range of topics, including everyday life situations, societal norms, and personal experiences. Her content is known for its humor, relatability, and ability to address serious issues in a light-hearted manner.
5. What was Prajakta Koli’s career before YouTube?
Before becoming a YouTuber, Prajakta Koli worked as a radio jockey at Fever 104 FM. During her time there, she hosted her own show, Call Centre, where she interacted with listeners and shared stories, which laid the foundation for her skills in engaging an audience.
6. Has Prajakta Koli appeared in any films?
Yes, Prajakta Koli has made her mark in Bollywood with her debut in the film “Jugjugg Jeeyo” in 2022. She has also appeared in other films such as “Khayali Pulao,” a short film addressing societal issues, and the thriller “Neeyat.”
7. What are some notable web series Prajakta Koli has starred in?
Prajakta Koli starred in the Netflix series “Mismatched,” where she played the lead role of Dimple Ahuja. The series was well-received, showcasing her acting talent and expanding her influence beyond YouTube.
8. What inspired Prajakta Koli to become a YouTuber?
Prajakta Koli was inspired to become a YouTuber after receiving encouragement from Sudeep Lahiri, Vice President of Content and Strategy at One Digital Entertainment. He recognized her potential and encouraged her to create digital content, which led to the creation of MostlySane.
9. What is the #iPledgeToBeMe campaign?
The #iPledgeToBeMe campaign, launched by Prajakta Koli, focuses on mental health awareness, well-being, and body positivity. This initiative reflects her commitment to using her platform for positive social change and includes sharing her personal experiences with body shaming and mental health struggles.
10. Has Prajakta Koli received any awards for her work?
Yes, Prajakta Koli has received numerous awards for her work. She has been featured in Forbes’ 30 Under 30, Entrepreneur India’s 35 Under 35, Cosmopolitan’s YouTuber of the Year, and has won the Femina India Star Influencer Award, recognizing her significant impact in digital media and entertainment.
11. What social causes does Prajakta Koli support?
Prajakta Koli actively supports several social causes, including mental health awareness, climate action, and women’s empowerment. She uses her platform to raise awareness and advocate for these issues, engaging her audience in meaningful conversations and initiatives.
12. Who is Prajakta Koli’s fiancé?
Prajakta Koli is engaged to Vrishank Khanal, a lawyer. The couple announced their engagement on September 17, 2023, sharing their joyous moment with their fans through social media.
13. What is Prajakta Koli’s educational background?
Prajakta Koli graduated with a Bachelor of Mass Media from V. G. Vaze College of Arts, Science and Commerce in Mulund, Mumbai. Her educational background in mass media has undoubtedly contributed to her understanding of content creation and audience engagement.
14. Has Prajakta Koli worked with any global organizations?
Yes, Prajakta Koli has collaborated with several global organizations. She is a global ambassador for YouTube’s Creators for Change initiative and was appointed as UNDP India’s first Youth Climate Champion, reflecting her commitment to social and environmental causes on a global scale.
15. What is the name of Prajakta Koli’s Audible podcast?
Prajakta Koli is part of an Audible series titled “Desi Down Under.” The podcast follows the journey of three young Indians in Australia as they learn surf-lifesaving skills, offering a unique blend of adventure and cultural exchange.
16. What inspired Prajakta Koli’s acting debut?
Prajakta Koli made her acting debut with the short film “Khayali Pulao,” driven by her passion for storytelling and addressing social issues like female empowerment in rural areas. The film allowed her to explore a new medium of expression and reach a different audience.
17. What are Prajakta Koli’s notable achievements in digital media?
Prajakta Koli has achieved numerous milestones in digital media. She has performed at YouTube FanFest, hosted shows like “Pretty Fit,” and engaged in high-profile interviews with global personalities. Her achievements highlight her versatility and influence in the digital content space.
18. Has Prajakta Koli authored any books?
Yes, Prajakta Koli is authoring a romance fiction novel titled “Too Good To Be True.” The book, with publishing rights acquired by Harper Collins, marks her debut as a fiction writer, expanding her creative repertoire beyond digital content and acting.
19. What roles has Prajakta Koli played in her film and TV projects?
Prajakta Koli has played various roles across different media. In “Khayali Pulao,” she portrayed Asha, a young girl challenging societal norms. In “Mismatched,” she played Dimple Ahuja, a tech-savvy teenager. In “Jugjugg Jeeyo,” she took on the role of Ginny, and in “Neeyat,” she played Gigi “Cub Kumar.” Each role has showcased her acting range and talent.
20. How does Prajakta Koli engage with her fans?
Prajakta Koli engages with her fans through various social media platforms, including Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter. She shares personal moments, professional updates, and advocates for social causes, maintaining a close connection with her audience and fostering a strong community of followers.
