Introduction: The Power of Digital Storytelling Meets Social Impact

In the rapidly evolving landscape of the digital age, the art of storytelling has transformed significantly, branching out from traditional mediums to embrace innovative platforms. The explosive proliferation of social media has created a unique environment where diverse and creative voices from every corner of India can rise and resonate. These creators possess the remarkable ability to ignite meaningful conversations, educate vast audiences, and catalyze real-world change, all through the creation of short and impactful content that captures attention and creates engagement.

At the Kokan Kala Mahotsav 2025, the Reel To Real Award is a celebration of this very essence. This prestigious award recognizes and honors those creators who harness the power of digital platforms to enrich society, going beyond mere entertainment to implement genuine social transformation. It acknowledges the commitment and creativity of individuals who use their storytelling prowess to address important issues, inspire action, and instigate dialogue around pressing social challenges. In doing so, the Reel To Real Award aims to encourage a culture of responsible creation, where the impact of digital storytelling can lead to positive change in communities across India.

The Reel To Real Award: Meaning, Significance, and Impact

The Reel To Real Award was conceived to spotlight creators who transcend the usual metrics of social media popularity. It is an honor reserved for those who turn digital influence into tangible change—bringing awareness, fostering empowerment, and encouraging social responsibility through purpose-driven content.

What Does This Award Represent?

• Authenticity Over Virality: This award recognizes the creators who stay true to their principles, build genuine connections, and measure success by the lives and minds they touch, not just numbers on a screen.
• Social Consciousness in Action: Recipients use their reach to highlight pressing societal issues—education, healthcare, women’s dignity, community development—and spark conversations that lead to change.
• Digital Influence Becoming Real Impact: The award bridges social media and offline action, honoring those who mobilize audiences to learn, take action, and support causes that uplift others.
• Inclusivity and Accessibility: Content that breaks barriers—making important topics understandable, relatable, and accessible to all corners of society.
• Alignment with Kokan NGO India’s Mission: Each recipient contributes directly or indirectly to the NGO’s core initiatives, proving how digital creativity can drive long-term, sustainable transformation.

Meet the Reel To Real Awardees 2025

1. Mangesh Kakad: @mangaajjii – The Comedy of Conscience

Mangesh Kakad, known to millions as @mangaajjii, has redefined the influence of Marathi comedy. His village-life skits and unique characters don’t just make people laugh—they open up discussions on family values, community support, and what it means to be truly human in today’s world. By integrating humor with social messaging, Mangesh shows how entertainment can spark genuine dialogue and encourage greater empathy.

His work stands out for:

• Relatable storytelling rooted in everyday Kokan life
• Skits and characters that transcend cultural boundaries
• Humorous takes on humanity, morality, and collective responsibility
• Consistently using digital content to initiate community dialogue

Mangesh’s approach proves that laughter, when paired with a conscience, is one of the most powerful catalysts for change.

2. Aarti Jalgaonkar: @aarti_jalgaonkar – Championing Women’s Dignity

@aarti_jalgaonkar is much more than an influencer; she’s a champion for women’s dignity across rural Maharashtra. Her content dives deep into vital topics like menstrual health, skill-building, and literacy—subjects that break barriers and open new possibilities for women and girls.

Aarti’s impact is felt through:

• Breaking taboos by normalizing menstrual health conversations
• Showcasing female literacy and vocational training as essential rights
• Mobilizing support for Kokan NGO India’s programs (like sewing machine distribution and education drives)
• Empowering women to seek resources and independence

Through her relatable narratives and authentic advocacy, Aarti inspires action, giving her audience tools to transform their lives.

3. Sanjay Appan: @sanjay_appan – Bridging the Gap in Education

@sanjay_appan, celebrated professor and viral educator, brings Strategic Management and finance out of the textbook and into everyday life. His reels turn tough subjects into viral hits—making learning fun, engaging, and accessible to thousands of students who otherwise struggle with academic complexity.

Sanjay’s social impact lies in:

• Using humor and real-world analogies to teach commerce and management
• Empowering students with confidence and practical knowledge
• Breaking down educational barriers for learners from different backgrounds
• Creating a community of enthusiastic lifelong learners

His digital presence proves education can be entertaining and unforgettable, making him a deserving recipient of the Reel To Real Award.

4. Adiraj and Yuvraj Ghanghav: @adiraje2121 – Inspiring Youth and Education

@adiraje2121 is recognized for motivating youth and driving educational awareness, especially among the underprivileged. His content spotlights success stories—students tackling incredible odds through hard work and learning, serving as powerful mentors (even from afar) for those who need inspiration the most.

Adiraj and Yuvraj Ghanghav’s efforts include:

• Regular features on students who have transformed their lives
• Consistent calls for embracing education as the path out of poverty
• Mentorship and guidance embedded in motivational reels
• Strong advocacy for Kokan NGO India’s educational programs

His commitment to making youth believe in their potential is a guiding light for a new generation striving for progress.

5. Veeru Vajrawad: @veeruvajrawad – The Voice of Community Resilience

@veeruvajrawad stands as a role model in community resilience, shining a spotlight on grassroots heroes and local changemakers. His videos showcase village initiatives, collective problem-solving, and the spirit of self-help, mobilizing followers to become active agents in their communities.

Highlights of his work:

• Stories of local heroes and community-driven development
• Amplifying the impact of volunteerism and civic engagement
• Connecting digital audiences to real-world causes and community projects
• Inspiring replication of successful models in other regions

Veeru’s platform is a powerful reminder that every action, no matter how small, contributes to a larger narrative of positive change.

The Collective Impact: Digital Champions of Real Change

These five inspiring Reel Stars exemplify the evolution of influencers into true changemakers. Their content:

• Prioritizes purpose and impact over superficial metrics
• Builds authentic connections with audiences who trust and act
• Focuses on education, empowerment, and community-building at every step
• Scales impact across demographics, languages, and regions
• Supports the broader mission of Kokan NGO India

Together, they show that digital platforms are not just spaces for consumption—they are powerful engines for compassion and transformation.

Conclusion: The Future of Influence Is Real

The Reel To Real Award at Kokan Kala Mahotsav 2025 underscores a vital message: Influence without impact is hollow—but impact driven through digital creativity can transform the world. These Reel Stars are not just content creators; they are digital champions lighting the path toward a more educated, empowered, and compassionate society.