In Phonibabu Viral, the central character, Phonibabu, has remained steadfastly committed to his family throughout a life defined by struggle and various ups and downs. Through immense hard work, he has painstakingly built a home and acquired land for his loved ones. However, the irony is that due to his age, he has become a burden on both his family and his neighbours. Amidst these circumstances, Phonibabu suddenly goes viral overnight, becoming a “virtual star.”

Phonibabu Viral humorously explores the intersection of his past and present, and the contrast between his “reel” and “real” life. The backdrop of the story is a “modern-day village”, where mobile phones have reached every hand. The narrative revolves around Phonibabu, a 75-year-old resident of this village, his wife Sundari, his family, and his neighbours.

The film stars Subhasish Mukherjee, Roshni Bhattacharya, Kharaj Mukherjee, Kanchan Mullick, Sanjeeb Mukherjee, Manish Chakraborty, Tamali Dey Majumdar, Anindita Bhadra and more. “In today’s world, from children to the elderly, almost everyone has a smartphone in their hands, and with this smartphone, nearly everyone wants to become viral overnight — that is, a star. Through Phonibabu Viral, I have tried to search for answers, in a light-hearted and entertaining way, about the lives of people who want to become viral or who become viral by chance, along with the changes in their surroundings, values, and relationships,” said director Raju Majumder.

Smartphones have become an inseparable part of everyday life. From children to the elderly, almost everyone is constantly connected, scrolling, recording, and sharing. With this easy access to social media comes a growing desire to be seen, noticed, and celebrated. The idea of becoming “viral” has turned into a modern-day dream — one where ordinary individuals hope to achieve instant fame and recognition overnight.

This phenomenon raises important questions about the lives of people who actively seek virality, as well as those who attain it unexpectedly by chance. Sudden online attention can bring excitement and validation, but it can also disrupt personal lives. Relationships begin to change, priorities shift, and values are often redefined under the pressure of public opinion, likes, and followers.

Explored in a light-hearted and engaging way, this film looks beyond the surface glamour of internet fame to understand its deeper impact. It reflects on how digital popularity influences behaviour, self-worth, and social dynamics, revealing the contrast between virtual applause and real-life consequences. Ultimately, it serves as a commentary on people’s collective obsession with instant stardom and invites reflection on what truly matters in a world driven by screens and shares.