Before Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts took over, TikTok was creating a new generation of internet celebrities. Being a successful Tiktok creator meant building a strong presence with engaging and original content. Creators like Riyaz Aly, Team 07, Awez Darbar, and later DamnFam weren’t just making viral videos. They were among the first influencers to build massive fan communities through short-form content, helping shape India’s creator economy long before it became mainstream.
When TikTok was banned in India in 2020, many wondered whether these creators would be able to survive without the platform that made them famous.
Team 07
One of the most recognisable creator groups of the TikTok era, Team 07 became known for its friendship-driven content and loyal fanbase. Members including Mr Faisu, Adnaan Shaikh and Hasnain Khan successfully transitioned to Instagram and YouTube, where they continue to maintain large audiences.
Riyaz Aly
Once among India’s biggest TikTok stars, Riyaz Aly turned his online popularity into a broader entertainment career. From music videos to brand collaborations, he remains one of the most recognisable faces from the platform’s golden era.
Awez Darbar
Awez Darbar used his TikTok fame as a launchpad to build a larger presence across entertainment, dance and digital content. Over the years, he has grown far beyond being just a short-form creator.
DamnFam
As influencer houses gained popularity, DamnFam became one of the biggest creator collectives in the country. While the group eventually went its separate ways, it played a major role in defining India’s early creator-house culture.
Platforms may come and go, but influence often lasts much longer.
Years after TikTok disappeared from India, many of its biggest stars are still thriving online. Their journeys are a reminder that while algorithms change, creators who build strong communities can continue to evolve with every new platform.