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The Secret to Becoming an Instagram Influencer in India!

By Dilip Guru

Updated on Jul 02, 2025 | 9 min read | 29.97K+ views

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Did you know? As of 2025, Virat Kohli is not just India’s most-followed Instagram influencer, but he's also a global sensation with a jaw-dropping 270 million followers! From exclusive cricket moments to personal insights and high-profile brand collaborations, his content captivates millions, making him a digital powerhouse both in India and worldwide! 

Becoming an Instagram influencer in India involves more than just sharing photos. It’s about understanding the platform and building genuine connections with your followers. 

Some of the most effective social media marketing techniques include posting consistently, using relevant hashtags, and creating content that speaks to your audience’s interests. 

Take Avneet Kaur, for example; she grew her following by sharing relatable content and working with brands in a way that felt genuine. This blog will guide you through 10 practical tips to help you become an Instagram influencer in India! 

If you're ready to turn your Instagram presence into something bigger, enroll for upGrad’s Online Digital Marketing Courses!  Get the inside scoop on Instagram strategies, content planning, and brand partnerships that actually work! 

Top 10 Ways to Become an Instagram Influencer in India

Building a strong presence as an Instagram influencer in India comes with its own set of challenges: algorithm shifts, audience engagement issues, and the constant need for fresh content with the right tools. Without the right strategies in place, it’s easy to get lost in the crowd. 

Take Prajakta Koli (aka Mostlysane), for example. She grew from a YouTube personality to a successful influencer by staying authentic, creating meaningful content, and collaborating with top brands. 

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In this section, we’ll share 10 key strategies that can help you not only grow your Instagram but also maintain a lasting and impactful presence.

1. Optimize for Instagram SEO

As an Instagram influencer in India, if your content doesn’t appear in the right searches or reach the right audience, it can easily get lost. Instagram SEO helps your content appear in relevant searches, making it easier for new users to discover you. By optimizing captions, profiles, and hashtags, you can increase your followers, visibility, and engagement.

Ways to Implement Instagram SEO

Method

How to Implement

Keyword-Rich Bio Include keywords related to your niche or brand in your bio for search visibility.
Optimized Captions Use relevant, specific keywords in captions to improve discoverability.
Hashtags Choose niche, targeted hashtags along with popular ones to reach your ideal audience.
Alt Text Use Instagram’s alt text feature to describe your images with relevant keywords.
Geotagging Add location tags to posts to reach local audiences and increase searchability.

Practical Use Case: Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli, one of India’s top Instagram influencers, used Instagram SEO strategies effectively to increase his engagement. His bio includes keywords like "Cricket," "Fitness," and "Family," which are essential to his brand and attract a wide range of followers. 

Additionally, he consistently uses targeted hashtags like #CricketLife and #FitnessGoals, allowing him to connect with both sports fans and fitness enthusiasts. By optimizing his posts for search, he ensures his content is seen by the right audience, contributing to his massive 270 million followers.

Also Read: Best Instagram Practices: Boost Engagement and Grow Your Brand

2. Use Direct Messages (DMs) for Engagement

While comments are great, direct messages (DMs) are a more personal way to interact and build relationships. Instagram’s algorithm favors accounts that engage with their followers in a more intimate and authentic way. DMs allow you to have one-on-one conversations, offer personalized responses, and create a loyal community.

Ways to Implement DMs for Engagement

Method

How to Implement

Respond to Comments via DMs If a follower leaves a meaningful comment, reply to it via DM for a more personalized touch.
Run Polls or Quizzes Use Instagram Stories to run polls or quizzes, and DM participants to thank them or start a conversation.
Share Exclusive Content Send exclusive offers or sneak peeks to your most engaged followers through DMs.
Follow-Up with New Followers Send a welcome DM to new followers, thanking them and introducing them to your content.
Host Contests/Giveaways Run contests where the winner is selected via DM. This encourages more interactions and builds excitement.

Practical Use Case: Shraddha Kapoor

Shraddha Kapoor is a great example of an influencer who uses DMs effectively to engage with her fans. She often replies to DMs from her followers, building a personal connection with them. Additionally, during her brand collaborations, Shraddha has been known to directly message fans to let them know about exclusive promotions or giveaways. 

This personalized approach not only boosts her engagement but also makes her audience feel valued. By using DMs, Shraddha has cultivated a loyal fanbase that supports her both on and off the platform, contributing to her influence.

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3. Utilize 'Trial Reels' for Testing Content

One of the toughest challenges influencers face is gauging what type of content will resonate with their audience. With Instagram constantly updating its algorithm, what worked yesterday may not work today. 

Enter ‘Trial Reels,’ a feature that allows you to test content without posting it directly to your main feed. This strategy enables you to gauge audience response and optimize your content before committing to a larger release.

Ways to Implement 'Trial Reels' for Testing Content

Method

How to Implement

Test Different Formats Experiment with different types of Reels (tutorials, behind-the-scenes, challenges) to see which gets the most engagement.
Post at Different Times Try posting Reels at various times of the day to see when your audience is most active.
Use Multiple Hashtags Test the performance of different combinations of hashtags to find which ones boost your reach.
Engage Your Audience Encourage feedback through comments or DM by asking followers what they liked or didn’t like about the Reel.
Track Insights Monitor the performance of your Trial Reels in terms of views, likes, shares, and saves to identify trends.

Practical Use Case: Ananya Panday

Ananya Panday has effectively used the 'Trial Reels' feature to test new content ideas and refine her approach. She frequently posts short, experimental Reels that feature different types of content, ranging from fashion tips to candid behind-the-scenes moments. 

By observing how her audience interacts with each type of Reel, Ananya has been able to identify the formats that get the most engagement. This strategy enables her to focus on content that her audience loves, ensuring her feed remains fresh and engaging.

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4. Post During Peak Engagement Hours

Knowing when to post on Instagram is just as important as what you post. If your audience is not active when you share content, it can quickly get buried in the feed, resulting in low engagement. By posting during peak hours, you increase your chances of catching your audience when they’re most likely to engage with your content.

Ways to Implement Posting During Peak Engagement Hours

Time Slot

Best For

How to Implement

12 PM - 1 PM (IST) Lunchtime engagement; casual browsing Post before lunch to catch users checking their feed during breaks.
6 PM - 8 PM (IST) After-work hours; high engagement from people unwinding at home Schedule posts towards the end of the workday to target people relaxing after work.
9 PM - 11 PM (IST) Late-night browsing; users winding down or scrolling before bed Post in the evening to capture engagement from night owls or users in other time zones.
11 AM - 1 PM (IST) Mid-morning engagement; users active after starting their day Post late in the morning to target users who are just starting their day or during coffee breaks.
7 AM - 9 AM (IST) Early risers; people checking their phones first thing in the morning Post early to reach users starting their day with a quick scroll through Instagram.

Practical Use Case: Priyanka Chopra

Priyanka Chopra, with millions of global followers, strategically posts during peak hours. By posting around 6 PM - 8 PM IST, she captures audiences in India as well as her international fans, especially those in time zones like the US. 

She consistently shares her posts during evening hours, ensuring that they appear on the feeds of her followers when engagement is highest. This timing, along with her interactive content, helps her maintain a strong and consistent engagement rate.

5. Create Binge-Worthy Content Series

Posting regular episodes of a series encourages followers to come back for more, increasing engagement and loyalty. By turning your content into a series, you create anticipation, building a habit for your audience to tune in regularly, just like they would for their favorite TV shows. 

This strategy not only keeps your current followers engaged but also helps attract new ones as they binge-watch your content.

Ways to Implement Binge-Worthy Content Series

Content Type

How to Implement

Weekly Themes Start a weekly theme (e.g., #FashionFridays) that you post every week. This gives your followers something to look forward to.
Mini-Series with Cliffhangers Create a short series of Reels or Stories that leaves viewers curious, encouraging them to check in for the next part.
Collaborations & Guest Features Bring in other influencers or experts for a series of guest posts, creating cross-promotion and diversity in content.
Behind-the-Scenes Content Share an ongoing behind-the-scenes series of your work or daily life to create an authentic, relatable connection with your audience.
Tutorial or Challenge Series Run a tutorial or challenge series, where you can show progress or teach followers something new in episodes.

Practical Use Case: Kusha Kapila

Kusha Kapila, a popular influencer and content creator, successfully built a loyal following with her binge-worthy content. Her Instagram series like #KushaKapilaTakesOn feature comedic takes on daily situations, and by posting regularly, she created anticipation among her followers. 

This led to her fans eagerly waiting for the next installment, ensuring high engagement and consistent views. Kusha’s content series not only kept her audience hooked but also helped her expand her reach as fans shared her posts with others. 

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6. Engage Authentically with Your Audience

While it’s easy to get caught up in vanity metrics like likes and followers, true influence comes from creating real connections with your audience. Engagement that feels personal and genuine not only helps build a loyal community but also signals Instagram's algorithm that your content is valuable. 

Responding to comments, engaging in DMs, and participating in conversations builds trust and boosts engagement.

Ways to Engage Authentically with Your Audience

Engagement Type

How to Implement

Reply to Comments Make it a habit to reply to your followers' comments, acknowledging their thoughts and keeping the conversation going.
Host Q&A Sessions Use Instagram Stories or Lives to host Q&A sessions, where followers can ask questions about you, your work, or your niche.
Send Personalized DMs Engage with your most active followers by sending them a thank-you DM or personalized message, making them feel valued.
Engage in Stories & Polls Regularly use Stories to run polls, quizzes, or questions that encourage participation and show you care about their input.
Celebrate Milestones Together Share your successes, anniversaries, or personal milestones with your audience and thank them for their support.

Practical Use Case: Neha Kakkar

Neha Kakkar, one of India’s most-loved singers and influencers, is known for her authentic engagement with followers. Whether it’s replying to comments on her posts or holding live sessions where she chats with fans, Neha has built a strong, loyal community.

Her engagement goes beyond likes, she often connects with fans on a personal level, celebrating their achievements and thanking them for their continued support. Neha’s authentic engagement has made her one of the most relatable and followed influencers in India. This shows how meaningful connections drive long-term success.

7. Incorporate User-Generated Content (UGC)

By featuring content created by your followers, you not only show appreciation for their support but also encourage more people to engage with your posts. UGC provides social proof that others value your brand, making it an effective strategy for attracting new followers. Plus, it creates a sense of community, making your audience feel involved in your content creation process.

Ways to Incorporate User-Generated Content

UGC Strategy

How to Implement

Repost Followers' Posts Share posts from your followers that feature your product, brand, or content. Always ask for permission first!
Create a Hashtag Campaign Encourage followers to use a specific hashtag when sharing content related to your niche, making it easy to find and repost.
Host a UGC Contest Run a contest where followers submit content (photos, videos, etc.) and reward the best submissions with a shoutout or a prize.
Feature Testimonials Share customer or follower testimonials as a form of UGC that highlights your brand’s impact.
Encourage Reviews and Ratings Ask your followers to share their thoughts and experiences, and feature their reviews in your posts or stories.

Practical Use Case: Bangalore-based Food Blogger – Kalyani Hegde

Kalyani Hegde, a well-known food blogger in India, has effectively used UGC to build a loyal community. She runs hashtag campaigns like #KalyanisKitchenCreations, encouraging followers to recreate her recipes and share photos. Kalyani then reposts their pictures, which not only shows her appreciation but also inspires more followers to try her recipes. 

This approach not only boosts engagement but also reinforces her authenticity and creates a sense of community, as fans feel personally connected to her brand. By integrating UGC into her strategy, Kalyani has grown her influence and trust among her audience.

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Also Read: How to Monetize Instagram in 2025: Turn Your Followers Into Income!

8. Optimize Your Profile for Search

A well-optimized profile increases your chances of being discovered by users who are searching for content in your niche. From using the right keywords in your bio to having a clear, engaging profile picture, small changes can make a big impact in boosting your visibility.

Ways to Optimize Your Profile for Search

Profile Element

How to Implement

Keyword-Rich Bio Include relevant keywords that reflect your niche (e.g., "Fitness Trainer," "Travel Blogger") to show up in searches.
Clear Profile Picture Use a high-quality, easily recognizable photo that aligns with your personal brand.
Niche-Specific Hashtags in Bio Add a few popular and niche-specific hashtags in your bio to make your profile searchable.
Link to Your Website or Blog Include a link to your personal website or blog, especially if you’re sharing content related to your work.
Category Selection Select an appropriate category (e.g., "Public Figure," "Health & Wellness") that matches your niche.

Practical Use Case: Karan Johar

Karan Johar, a Bollywood director and media personality, has an Instagram profile that’s perfectly optimized for search. His bio includes keywords like "Filmmaker," "Host," and "Producer," which align with his career and brand. His profile picture is a clear shot of him in a professional setting, instantly recognizable to his followers. 

By using niche hashtags like #KaranJoharFilms and selecting the right category, he ensures his profile shows up in relevant searches, making it easier for users to discover his content. This optimization contributes to his consistent visibility and massive following on the platform.

9. Use Hashtags Strategically

Instagram’s algorithm prioritizes content that’s relevant to users, and hashtags play a key role in categorizing your posts. By choosing the right combination of popular and niche-specific hashtags, you can ensure your content reaches a wider, yet targeted, audience. 

Strategic hashtag use can also improve engagement and get your posts in front of people who are genuinely interested in your niche.

Ways to Use Hashtags Strategically

Hashtag Strategy

How to Implement

Mix Popular and Niche Hashtags Combine high-traffic hashtags (#InstaGood) with niche-specific ones (#FashionInfluencerIndia) to balance reach and relevance.
Use a Custom Hashtag Create your own unique hashtag for branding or campaigns, encouraging followers to use it in their posts.
Analyze Hashtag Performance Use Instagram Insights to see which hashtags are driving the most engagement and refine your strategy accordingly.
Limit Hashtags to 5-10 Use a targeted number of hashtags (5-10) to avoid looking spammy and ensure that each one adds value.
Add Hashtags in Comments Post your hashtags in the first comment to keep your caption clean, without affecting engagement.

Practical Use Case: Komal Pandey

Komal Pandey, a fashion influencer, has successfully used hashtags to increase her discoverability. She combines highly popular hashtags like #Fashionista with more specific ones like #IndieFashion or #MumbaiStreetStyle, ensuring she reaches both a wide and a highly targeted audience. 

Additionally, Komal created her own hashtag, #KomalPStyle, which her followers now use to share their fashion looks inspired by her. This custom hashtag not only strengthens her brand identity but also generates more engagement from her community. Komal’s strategic use of hashtags has helped her consistently grow her following while staying relevant to her niche.

Also Read: How To Evaluate an Influencer Marketing Campaign?

10. Maintain Consistency with Quality Content

Posting regularly keeps you in the minds of your followers, and consistently providing high-quality content helps build your credibility and authority. However, it's not just about quantity. It’s about maintaining a balance between posting frequently and ensuring the content you share is valuable, relevant, and visually appealing. The right mix will ensure your followers stay engaged and look forward to your posts.

Ways to Maintain Consistency with Quality Content

Content Strategy

How to Implement

Create a Content Calendar Plan your posts ahead of time to maintain a consistent posting schedule. Include a mix of content types (images, videos, Reels, Stories).
Stick to Your Niche Focus on a specific niche that aligns with your brand and ensures that all your content speaks to that audience.
Set a Posting Frequency Decide how often you’ll post—whether it's daily, every other day, or weekly—and stick to it. Consistency is key.
Mix Content Types Incorporate a variety of content—photos, videos, Reels, IGTV, Stories—to keep your feed dynamic and engaging.
Keep Your Content Visually Cohesive Use similar color schemes, filters, and overall aesthetics to create a consistent look and feel across your posts.

Practical Use Case: Mumbiker Nikhil

Mumbiker Nikhil, a popular Indian vlogger and influencer, has built his massive following by maintaining consistency in both content and posting schedule. Nikhil posts regularly on Instagram, mixing between lifestyle, travel, and personal content. This is all while staying true to his niche of vlogging and sharing authentic moments. 

His posts are always high-quality, whether it’s a scenic travel shot or a casual behind-the-scenes story, ensuring his audience always gets something valuable. By sticking to a consistent posting schedule and maintaining quality, Nikhil has developed a loyal community that looks forward to his content.

Also Read: The Ultimate Guide to Digital Marketing Courses You Need in 2025!

Now that you're equipped with the top strategies to become an Instagram influencer in India, let's take a closer look at the challenges you'll need to overcome to make it to the top!

Challenges Faced by Instagram Influencers in India

The shift from a traditional algorithm to AI-driven ranking systems has made content discoverability more competitive. Additionally, the rise of micro and nano influencers has intensified the need for authenticity and niche targeting. 

Influencers now face pressures not only from platform dynamics but also from societal expectations and regulatory scrutiny. Understanding these challenges is important for anyone aspiring to succeed as an Instagram influencer in India. 

Key Challenges and Solutions Faced by an Instagram Influencer in India:

Challenge

Description

Solution

Algorithmic Uncertainty Instagram's shift to AI-driven algorithms makes predicting content performance difficult. Stay updated on Instagram’s algorithm changes and adapt content strategies to maintain visibility.
Content Saturation The influx of micro and nano influencers makes it harder to stand out. Focus on creating unique, niche content that resonates with a specific audience.
Mental Health Struggles The pressure to maintain a perfect online persona can lead to burnout and anxiety. Set boundaries, take breaks, and focus on mental well-being. Prioritize authenticity over perfection.
Regulatory Challenges Compliance with advertising standards and disclosure norms is crucial. Stay informed on legal guidelines and ensure clear disclosures in sponsored posts.
Brand Alignment Misalignment with brands can lead to audience distrust. Partner with brands that align with your values and message to maintain authenticity.
Economic Pressures Inconsistent income streams and constant content production can cause financial strain. Diversify income sources and focus on long-term partnerships for financial stability.
Audience Expectations Followers may expect constant engagement and may criticize perceived inauthenticity. Be transparent with your audience and manage expectations through clear communication.
Platform Dependency Relying too much on Instagram for income makes influencers vulnerable to platform changes. Diversify your presence across platforms like YouTube, Twitter, or a personal blog.
Content Creation Fatigue Constantly coming up with fresh content can lead to creative burnout. Take scheduled breaks, repurpose old content, or collaborate with other creators to ease the load.
Public Scrutiny Influencers are constantly under scrutiny, making every move public. Be mindful of your actions, stay true to your values, and be transparent when mistakes happen.

These challenges highlight the tough realities influencers face, but with the right approach and strategies, they can be navigated effectively to build a successful career in digital marketing.

Now that you know the challenges, let’s explore how upGrad can help you overcome them and boost your influencer journey!

How upGrad Can Help You Succeed as an Instagram Influencer in India! 

As of 2025, the salary of an Instagram influencer in India ranges from ₹5,000 to ₹50,000 per post, with top influencers charging up to ₹5 lakhs. To succeed, focus on strategies like optimizing for Instagram SEO, engaging authentically through DMs, using Trial Reels, and maintaining consistent, high-quality content. 

upGrad’s courses can equip you with the skills needed to thrive as an influencer. Here are a few more to help you through your journey: 

Looking for personalized guidance on your influencer journey? upGrad offers expert counseling and one-on-one support to help you grow. Visit our offline center today and start shaping your path to success!

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References: 
https://www.meltwater.com/en/blog/top-india-instagram-influencers
https://blog.hootsuite.com/instagram-algorithm/
https://www.findyourinfluence.com/blog/the-state-of-influencer-marketing-in-2025-trends-challenges-and-whats-next/
https://drim.one/us/blog/article/instagram-income-in-india

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How can I start my journey as an Instagram influencer in India?

2. What’s the best way to grow my Instagram following as a beginner?

3. How do I deal with Instagram’s algorithm changes?

4. How can I maintain a balance between authenticity and brand collaborations?

5. What type of content gets the most engagement on Instagram?

6. How often should I post on Instagram to stay relevant?

7. How can I monetize my Instagram account?

8. How do I handle negative comments or criticism on Instagram?

9. Can an Instagram Influencer in India make a living just through social media?

10. What tools can I use to analyze my Instagram performance?

11. How do I choose the right niche for my Instagram account?

12. How long will it take for me to become a successful Instagram Influencer in India?

Dilip Guru

115 articles published

He is a Growth Hacker, Digital Marketer & Blogger. He loves solving problems of scale and long term digital strategy.

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