Context: A 4-minute skit where Baba plays 14 different candidates applying for a single data entry job. Why it went viral: Each character has a distinct, absurd flaw. The "Nervous Nelly" who apologizes for breathing, the "Over-Qualified Grandpa" who wants to fix the printer, and the "Conspiracy Theorist" who thinks the interview is a CIA plot. The video is a masterclass in timing. It remains the most re-watched popular video in his library.
This period defined the Baba filmography. He moved from cameos to substantial supporting roles, often playing the "best friend" or "rival."
Now, we arrive at the heart of the matter. While his filmography showcases his range, his popular videos on YouTube, Instagram Reels, and TikTok (before the ban) are the engines of his fame. These are the videos that generated millions of shares, thousands of memes, and a dedicated global fanbase.
Here are the Top 10 Most Popular Baba Videos of all time, ranked by cultural impact and view count.
Debuting in K. Balachander’s Apoorva Raagangal (1975), Rajinikanth was not initially cast as a hero. He played negative roles, characterized by mischief and menace.
Before diving into the filmography and popular videos, it is crucial to understand the persona. Baba (often stylized as BABA or TheBaba) is a multi-hyphenate entertainer—actor, writer, director, and YouTuber. Emerging from the indie comedy scene, he mastered the art of "relatable chaos." His characters often oscillate between the hyper-logical everyman and the absurdly irrational friend, neighbor, or relative.
Unlike traditional Bollywood or regional stars, Baba built his empire from the ground up. His early work consisted of low-budget, high-concept sketches shot on smartphones. Today, his popular videos rival the production quality of network television, yet they retain the raw, unpredictable energy that made him famous.
| Year | Album / Song | Notable Tracks | |-------|---------------|----------------| | 1992 | Thanda Thanda Pani | Title track, “Dil Dhadke” | | 1993 | Mani Mani | “Mani Mani”, “Baba Sehgal Rap” | | 1994 | Dilruba | Slow rap fusion | | 1995 | Main Bhi Madonna | Pop-rap crossover | | 1996–2010s | Various indie singles | “Jugnu”, “Maa Ka Phone” | | 2020s | YouTube rap parodies | “Lockdown Rap”, “Emojinal” series |