Who is Prafull Billore? The Man Viral for 'Panauti' Memes in T20 World Cup

If you’re an avid social media user, you’ve probably come across a familiar Indian face plastered over the South African cricket team players. Yes, those memes dubbed ‘Panauti’ (bad luck) are spreading like wildfire as India gears up for the IND vs. SA T20 World Cup final tonight. But who is that face, and why are Indians sharing it like crazy? Have you seen him somewhere before?

Here’s everything you need to know!

Who is He?

The man behind the meme is none other than Prafull Billore, the founder of MBA Chaiwala. Billore is an Indian entrepreneur who gained fame for his unique tea-selling business, which has garnered a massive following on social media.

Also Read: Chokers Vs Chokers: Whose Jinx Will Be Broken in 2024 T20 World Cup Final?

Originally from Madhya Pradesh, Billore dropped out of an MBA program and started a tea stall with just Rs. 8,000 in 2017. His venture quickly grew in popularity, becoming a national chain and a social media sensation.

But What Does He Have to Do With Cricket?

The ‘Panauti’ trend began after a viral selfie with cricketer Suryakumar Yadav. On June 21 this year, Billore shared an in-flight selfie with India’s 360-degree batsman on X (formerly Twitter). The very next day, Yadav scored only 6 runs in India’s T20 match against Bangladesh, leading to some playful speculation about Billore’s ‘panauti’ effect.

As the photo gained traction, comments buzzed with jokes about Billore’s supposed bad luck affecting SKY’s form.

The Latest Trend

Billore has now embraced a reverse jinx trend. Amid extensive trolling, he started resharing morphed mugshots created by netizens, pairing himself with players from teams playing against India. Ahead of the India vs. England semi-final, he posted several such pictures with English cricketers like Jos Buttler and Jofra Archer in humorous poses, hoping to use his ‘jinx’ power against them.

Netizens have rallied around Billore’s reverse jinx trend, especially after India’s decisive victory over England in the semifinals, winning by 68 runs in Guyana on Thursday.

Now, Billore is being humorously celebrated as a “freedom fighter,” credited for helping India overcome the semi-final hurdle with his unique reverse jinx power. As India faces South Africa in the finals in Barbados tonight, the excitement is palpable, and Billore is in full swing.

Memes Galore

On a streak with his reverse jinx powers, Billore is now posting pictures with South African players and the team. Using the hashtag #Istandwithsouthafrica, he even shared a picture of himself in front of the South African flag, furthering the whimsical narrative and keeping the meme momentum alive.

Final Word

Billore has cleverly turned negative comments from trolls into a joyful narrative. One X user wrote, “Bro is making his trolls his fans.” Others appreciated his sporting attitude, adding, “He has finally understood the assignment.” Some even voiced support for Billore receiving a national award. And just like that, Billore continues to humour his fans, finding a way to turn the jinx into a win!