The ‘ChotoBhai’ comes of age
Iftekhar Rafsan, better known as ‘Rafsan the ChotoBhai’, is inarguably one of the most popular vloggers in the country. The always upbeat youngster re-imagined what food vlogging could be like in Bangladesh, with his recent videos receiving an unprecedented number of views for a local food vlogger. He recently garnered 100,000 followers on his Facebook page. The Daily Star talks to the young star about his passion and career.
When did you decide to become a food vlogger?
It happened very randomly, I must say. In 2017, a friend, who also made YouTube videos, took me to Burger King, and we shot a video. It got a lot of traction, and I did not expect that at all. Slowly, I started coming out with more videos, and that is how it all started.
Your video about an allegedly 'counterfeit' restaurant got viral all over the internet, making you an instant 'celebrity'. How much has your life changed after this?
I cannot possibly describe the feeling, it was something that I never expected. The moment I walked into my university after the video got published, I got an ovation from everyone who was present at the campus. Even while I was coming here, the Uber driver was asking me about my videos. It feels great to have your hard work recognised by the people.
Have you ever thought of taking up vlogging as a full-time profession?
To be honest, it is very difficult to sustain a livelihood with only vlogging. If I did that, I would have to resort to dishonest practices, which would include putting out positive reviews of places that not deserve them at all. However, there will be a time when this budding industry will have more professionalism, and more opportunities for people who want to do it full-time.
Do you have a message for your fans?
I want to thank everyone who has been there with me throughout my journey. My page has hit 100,000 subscribers recently, and it has all been a bit overwhelming for me. I hope that you all will show the same kind of support for whatever I do next.