Internet fame can change lives overnight, and no one knows this better than Bhuban Badyakar, the man whose song Kacha Badam became a global sensation. But behind the viral tune lies a story of struggle, simplicity, and lessons learned the hard way.When YouTuber Nishu Tiwari met him, he greeted with a smile and his trademark humour. “I am 55 years old,” he said and moments later, he began singing, and suddenly, it all made sense. This was the voice that once echoed from Bengal’s villages to Bollywood and beyond.
“I used to sell almonds… and someone stole my phone”
Bhuban shared how Kacha Badam was born from an everyday moment. “I used to sell almonds,” he recalled. “When I was selling them, people would often steal my mobile phone. So I thought, I’ll take this experience, make a song about it, and sing it. I wanted everyone to hear it — to make them laugh and feel jealous too.”A local man recorded his song and uploaded it on social media. Within days, it went viral, and life was never the same again.
From a small hut to a new home
Before fame found him, Bhuban lived in a modest hut. “This is my house now,” he said proudly, gesturing to his home. Earlier, it was just a small hut in the name of a house. But after going viral, the first thing that changed was this.
The newfound recognition brought attention, admiration, and opportunities, but also exploitation.
“They made me sign away my song”
When asked if he earned from the viral hit, Bhuban said, “I went to Bombay; they gave me around Rs 60,000–70,000. Later, I went to Mr. DG of Kolkata who gave me Rs 1 lakh and a gift. But I don’t have the copyright for this song anymore.”He explained that someone had shown him big dreams, made him sign documents, and took away the song’s rights. The very tune that had changed his life soon dragged him into legal complications.
Despite everything, Kacha Badam opened doors for Bhuban. People began recognising him on the streets, taking selfies, and inviting him to perform at events and reality shows. “My life has improved after going viral,” he smiled. “People now know me and respect me.”
“Anjali Maxu sings my songs day and night!”
When asked about Anjali Arora, another social media figure often associated with his song, Bhuvanji chuckled. “Yes, Anjali Maxu called me. I haven’t met her, but she sings my songs a lot. Day and night!”
While the road hasn’t been easy, Bhuban remains optimistic. The fame might have come with challenges, but it also brought him identity, recognition, and a sense of pride.
