Top 10 Social Media Startups in India
India, with its burgeoning tech-savvy population, has become a fertile ground for social media startups. These platforms are not only fostering online communities but are also innovating in unique ways to cater to the diverse needs of Indian users. Here’s a look at the top 10 social media startups in India that are making waves in the digital landscape.
1. Share Chat
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Founders | Ankush Sachdeva, Bhanu Singh, Farid Ahsan |
| Founded | 2015 |
| Headquarters | Bengaluru, Karnataka, India |
| Primary Language Support | 15+ Indian languages |
| Key Features | Regional content, ShareChat Audio Chatrooms, AI-driven content curation |
| Monthly Active Users | 180 million+ |
| Website | sharechat.com |
Overview: Share Chat, launched in 2015 by Ankush Sachdeva, Bhanu Singh, and Farid Ahsan, is a social media platform that emphasizes regional languages. It supports over 15 Indian languages, including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, and Bengali, making it accessible to non-English speaking users across the country.
Innovations: ShareChat’s key innovation lies in its language-first approach. The platform uses AI to curate content tailored to the linguistic and cultural preferences of its users. It offers a wide range of content, including videos, memes, and status updates, and has introduced features like ShareChat Audio Chatrooms, where users can join discussions on various topics.
Impact: By enabling digital inclusivity, Share Chat has connected millions of users who were previously underserved by mainstream social media platforms. It has empowered regional content creators and provided a platform for cultural expression. The app has over 180 million monthly active users, making it one of India’s largest social networks.
Also Read: Top 10 Edutech startups in India
2. Chingari
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Founders | Sumit Ghosh, Biswatma Nayak |
| Founded | 2018 |
| Headquarters | Bengaluru, Karnataka, India |
| Primary Language Support | Multiple Indian languages |
| Key Features | Short videos, blockchain rewards (GARI), advanced editing tools |
| Downloads | 50 million+ |
| Website | chingari.io |
Overview: Chingari, founded by Sumit Ghosh and Biswatma Nayak in 2018, is a short-video sharing app that gained prominence after the ban on TikTok in India. It allows users to create, share, and discover short videos with various effects and filters.
Innovations: Chingari has integrated blockchain technology to reward content creators with its native cryptocurrency, GARI. This incentivizes creators by providing them with a direct revenue stream. Additionally, Chingari offers a range of editing tools, music tracks, and effects to enhance video creation.
Impact: Chingari has democratized content creation, allowing users from diverse backgrounds to showcase their talent. It has amassed over 50 million downloads and created a vibrant ecosystem for digital entertainment. The platform has also played a significant role in supporting local artists and creators financially through its unique reward system.
Also Read: Top 10 Traveltech startups in India
3. Trell
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Founders | Pulkit Agrawal, Bimal Kartheek Rebba, Prashant Sachan, Arun Lodhi |
| Founded | 2017 |
| Headquarters | Bengaluru, Karnataka, India |
| Primary Language Support | Multiple Indian languages |
| Key Features | Social commerce, influencer program, lifestyle content |
| Monthly Active Users | 100 million+ |
| Website | trell.co |
Overview: Trell is a lifestyle social commerce platform founded in 2017 by Pulkit Agrawal, Bimal Kartheek Rebba, Prashant Sachan, and Arun Lodhi. It focuses on content related to fashion, beauty, travel, and wellness, combining social media with e-commerce.
Innovations: Trell’s innovative blend of social networking and e-commerce allows users to not only discover content but also shop products directly from the app. The platform uses user-generated content to drive purchase decisions, offering a seamless shopping experience. It also features a comprehensive influencer program to leverage the reach of content creators.
Impact: Trell has redefined the online shopping experience by making it more interactive and personalized. It boasts over 100 million users and has significantly impacted the way people discover and purchase lifestyle products. By integrating content and commerce, Trell has created new revenue streams for influencers and brands.
Also Read: Top 10 Mobility startups in India
4. Koo
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Founders | Aprameya Radhakrishna, Mayank Bidawatka |
| Founded | 2020 |
| Headquarters | Bengaluru, Karnataka, India |
| Primary Language Support | Multiple Indian languages |
| Key Features | Microblogging, audio posts, language translation |
| Downloads | 20 million+ |
| Website | kooapp.com |
Overview: Koo, launched in 2020 by Aprameya Radhakrishna and Mayank Bidawatka, is a microblogging platform designed for Indian users. It supports multiple Indian languages, allowing users to express their thoughts and opinions in their preferred language.
Innovations: Koo’s major innovation is its multilingual interface, which facilitates communication across different linguistic groups. The platform also employs a robust moderation system to maintain a safe and respectful environment. Koo has introduced features like audio posts and language translation to enhance user engagement.
Impact: Koo has become a significant player in India’s digital space, especially as an alternative to global platforms like Twitter. It has over 20 million downloads and is used by prominent figures and organizations in India. By prioritizing local languages, Koo has fostered greater inclusivity and freedom of expression.
Also Read: Top 10 Fashiontech startups in India
5. Moj
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Developed By | ShareChat |
| Launched | 2020 |
| Headquarters | Bengaluru, Karnataka, India |
| Primary Language Support | Multiple Indian languages |
| Key Features | Short videos, music tracks, special effects |
| Downloads | 100 million+ |
| Website | mojapp.in |
Overview: Moj, developed by ShareChat, was launched in 2020 following the TikTok ban. It is a short video platform that allows users to create and share videos with various effects and music options.
Innovations: Moj leverages advanced video editing tools and AI-driven content recommendations to enhance user experience. It offers a vast library of music tracks and special effects, making video creation fun and accessible. The platform also promotes regional content, catering to diverse linguistic audiences.
Impact: Moj quickly became one of India’s leading short video platforms, with over 100 million downloads. It has provided a new outlet for content creators affected by the TikTok ban and has fostered a vibrant community of creators and viewers. Moj’s emphasis on regional content has also helped preserve and promote local cultures.
Also Read: Top 10 HR tech startups in India
6. Roposo
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Founders | Mayank Bhangadia, Avinash Saxena, Kaushal Shubhank |
| Founded | 2014 |
| Headquarters | Gurugram, Haryana, India |
| Primary Language Support | Multiple Indian languages |
| Key Features | TV-like browsing, live streaming, interactive games |
| Downloads | 100 million+ |
| Website | roposo.com |
Overview: Roposo, founded by Mayank Bhangadia, Avinash Saxena, and Kaushal Shubhank in 2014, is a video-sharing platform that allows users to create and share content across various genres such as comedy, music, and fashion.
Innovations: Roposo offers a TV-like browsing experience with multiple channels dedicated to different content types. It has integrated features like live streaming and interactive games to enhance user engagement. The platform’s unique format allows users to consume content in a more organized manner.
Impact: Roposo has grown to over 100 million users, making it a popular choice for digital entertainment in India. It has empowered numerous content creators by providing them with a platform to showcase their talents and earn revenue. Roposo’s diverse content offering has made it a go-to destination for varied entertainment needs.
Also Read: Top 10 Construction tech startups in India
7. Mitron
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Founders | Shivank Agarwal, Anish Khandelwal |
| Founded | 2020 |
| Headquarters | Bengaluru, Karnataka, India |
| Primary Language Support | Multiple Indian languages |
| Key Features | Short videos, video contests, challenges |
| Downloads | 40 million+ |
| Website | mitron.tv |
Overview: Mitron, launched by Shivank Agarwal and Anish Khandelwal in 2020, is a short-video sharing platform that emerged as an Indian alternative to TikTok. It allows users to create, share, and discover short videos.
Innovations: Mitron’s user-friendly interface and a wide array of editing tools make video creation accessible to everyone. The platform focuses on promoting local talent and has introduced features like video contests and challenges to engage users.
Impact: Mitron has attracted over 40 million users, providing a new avenue for digital creativity in India. It has played a pivotal role in the post-TikTok era, offering a space for creators to connect with audiences and grow their following. Mitron’s focus on local content has also helped nurture homegrown talent.
Also Read: Top 10 Beautytech startups in India
8. Public
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Founders | Azhar Iqubal, Pratap Bithal |
| Founded | 2019 |
| Headquarters | Gurugram, Haryana, India |
| Primary Language Support | Multiple Indian languages |
| Key Features | Hyper-local updates, news, geolocation technology |
| Downloads | 50 million+ |
| Website | public.app |
Overview: Public, founded by Azhar Iqubal and Pratap Bithal, is a location-based social network that allows users to share local updates, news, and events happening around them.
Innovations: Public leverages geolocation technology to deliver hyper-local content. It enables users to share real-time updates about their neighborhoods, ranging from news to local issues. The platform also collaborates with local authorities and organizations to provide verified information.
Impact: Public has become a crucial tool for community engagement, with over 50 million users. It has improved local information dissemination, helping residents stay informed about their surroundings. Public’s real-time updates have also aided in emergency situations, making it a vital resource for communities.
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9. Leher
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Founders | Vikas Malpani, Atul Jaju |
| Founded | 2018 |
| Headquarters | Bengaluru, Karnataka, India |
| Primary Language Support | Multiple Indian languages |
| Key Features | Live audio and video discussions, virtual rooms, clubs |
| Downloads | 1 million+ |
| Website | leher.app |
Overview: Leher is a live discussion platform founded by Vikas Malpani and Atul Jaju in 2018. It allows users to host and join live audio and video discussions on various topics.
Innovations: Leher’s innovative approach lies in its focus on real-time, interactive discussions. It offers features like virtual rooms and clubs where users can participate in or listen to conversations. The platform caters to a wide range of interests, from professional networking to hobbyist discussions.
Impact: Leher has created a unique space for meaningful conversations, attracting users who seek engaging discussions. It has over 1 million downloads and is particularly popular among professionals and enthusiasts looking to share knowledge and network. Leher’s format has facilitated deeper connections and learning opportunities.
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10. Tooter
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Founders | Anonymous group of Indian entrepreneurs |
| Founded | 2020 |
| Headquarters | San Francisco |
| Primary Language Support | Multiple Indian languages |
| Key Features | Microblogging, free speech, local content |
| Downloads | Not publicly disclosed |
| Website | tooter.in |
Overview: Tooter, launched by an anonymous group of Indian entrepreneurs, is a swadeshi social network modeled after Twitter. It focuses on providing an Indian-centric social media experience.
Innovations: Tooter emphasizes free speech and local content, positioning itself as a homegrown alternative to global platforms. It features a straightforward microblogging interface and supports content in multiple Indian languages.
Impact: Tooter has garnered attention as a platform that champions local expression and free speech. While its user base is smaller compared to other platforms, it has a dedicated following that appreciates its focus on Indian-centric content. Tooter represents a growing trend of digital nationalism in India’s social media landscape.
Also Read: Top 10 Socialmedia startups in India
FAQs on Top 10 Social Media Startups in India
1. What is ShareChat?
ShareChat is a social media platform that focuses on regional languages in India, supporting over 15 Indian languages. It allows users to share videos, jokes, songs, and other content tailored to their linguistic preferences.
2. How does Chingari reward its users?
Chingari integrates blockchain technology to reward content creators with its native cryptocurrency, GARI. This provides creators with a direct revenue stream based on their content’s popularity and engagement.
3. What makes Trell unique compared to other social media platforms?
Trell combines social networking with e-commerce, allowing users to discover and shop for lifestyle products directly from the app. It leverages user-generated content to drive purchase decisions and features a comprehensive influencer program.
4. Why was Koo developed?
Koo was developed as a microblogging platform tailored for Indian users, supporting multiple Indian languages. It aims to provide an alternative to global platforms like Twitter, focusing on local language support and free expression.
5. How did Moj become popular?
Moj quickly gained popularity after the TikTok ban in India. Developed by ShareChat, it offers advanced video editing tools, a vast library of music tracks, and special effects, attracting a large user base seeking short video content.
6. What content can users find on Roposo?
Roposo features content across various genres such as comedy, music, and fashion. It offers a TV-like browsing experience with multiple channels and includes features like live streaming and interactive games.
7. What is Mitron known for?
Mitron is known for being an Indian alternative to TikTok, allowing users to create and share short videos. It focuses on promoting local talent through features like video contests and challenges.
8. What type of content is shared on Public?
Public is a location-based social network where users share local updates, news, and events happening around them. It leverages geolocation technology to provide hyper-local content and real-time updates.
9. What kind of discussions can users join on Leher?
Leher allows users to host and join live audio and video discussions on a wide range of topics. It caters to professionals, hobbyists, and enthusiasts looking to engage in meaningful conversations and network.
10. What is Tooter, and how is it different from other social media platforms?
Tooter is a swadeshi social network modeled after Twitter. It focuses on free speech and local content, providing an Indian-centric social media experience. Tooter supports multiple Indian languages and promotes content tailored for Indian users.
11. How has ShareChat impacted regional content creators?
ShareChat has empowered regional content creators by providing a platform that prioritizes local languages and cultural expression. It has connected millions of users and allowed creators to reach a wide audience within their linguistic communities.
12. What is the primary goal of Trell’s social commerce model?
Trell’s social commerce model aims to integrate content discovery with online shopping. By allowing users to shop directly from the app based on user-generated content, Trell creates a seamless and interactive shopping experience.
13. Why did Koo gain prominence in India?
Koo gained prominence as an alternative to Twitter, especially during periods of heightened scrutiny of global social media platforms. Its support for multiple Indian languages and focus on local content made it a popular choice among Indian users.
14. How has Moj supported content creators post-TikTok ban?
Moj provided a new platform for content creators who were affected by the TikTok ban. With its user-friendly tools and focus on regional content, Moj enabled these creators to continue producing and sharing short videos, helping them retain and grow their audiences.
15. What are some key features of Roposo’s platform?
Roposo offers a TV-like browsing experience with dedicated channels for different content genres. It includes live streaming, interactive games, and a wide range of creative tools for content creation.
16. How does Mitron promote local talent?
Mitron promotes local talent through features like video contests and challenges, encouraging users to participate and showcase their creativity. Its focus on local content helps nurture homegrown talent.
17. What makes Public a valuable tool for communities?
Public provides real-time, hyper-local updates, making it a valuable tool for community engagement. It helps residents stay informed about their surroundings, local news, and events, improving overall community awareness and responsiveness.
18. Who typically uses Leher, and for what purpose?
Leher is used by professionals, hobbyists, and enthusiasts who seek engaging discussions and networking opportunities. It facilitates real-time audio and video conversations on a wide range of topics, fostering deeper connections and knowledge sharing.
19. What kind of user base does Tooter cater to?
Tooter caters to users who prefer an Indian-centric social media experience. It focuses on free speech and local content, appealing to those who seek a platform that emphasizes Indian languages and cultural nuances.
Conclusion
These social media startups are revolutionizing the way Indians connect and engage online. By prioritizing local languages, cultural nuances, and user preferences, they are creating inclusive platforms that resonate with a diverse user base. Their innovations not only challenge global giants but also empower local creators and communities, driving digital transformation in India.
Also Read:
Top 10 Edutech startups in India
Top 10 Traveltech startups in India
Top 10 Mobility startups in India
Top 10 Fashiontech startups in India
Top 10 HR tech startups in India
Top 10 Construction tech startups in India
Top 10 Beautytech startups in India
Top 10 Adtech startups in India
Top 10 Cybersecurity startups in India
Top 10 Socialmedia startups in India
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