At 74, ‘Aapli Aaji’ Becomes YouTube Sensation, Earns Lakhs with Traditional Recipes

Mumbai, April 8, 2025 — Defying age and expectations, 74-year-old Suman Dhamane has become a YouTube star with her popular cooking channel ‘Aapli Aaji’, earning between ₹5 to ₹6 lakh per month and amassing a subscriber base of 1.79 million. Her journey, marked by resilience, family support, and a passion for cooking, has captured the attention and admiration of audiences across the country.

Suman’s entry into the digital world began with encouragement from her grandson, Yash, who helped her navigate the technical side of launching a YouTube channel. With no prior experience in using the internet, Suman embraced the platform to share her traditional Maharashtrian recipes, many of which have been passed down through generations.

The content on ‘Aapli Aaji’ quickly gained popularity for its authenticity and warmth. From classic dishes like pav bhaji and karele ki sabzi to traditional sweets, Suman’s homestyle cooking and heartfelt presentation have earned her a loyal following. Her channel has become a comforting corner of the internet, celebrated for its simplicity and nostalgia.

Despite her growing success, the journey has not been without challenges. Suman initially struggled with camera shyness and technical difficulties, and at one point, her channel was briefly hacked. However, her determination and positive spirit kept her going. Her perseverance was rewarded when she received the YouTube Silver Play Button, recognizing her influence and impact as a creator.

Beyond YouTube, Suman has also launched her own line of traditional spice blends, turning her culinary passion into a thriving business. Her story has become a shining example of how digital platforms can empower individuals of all ages to pursue new opportunities.

Suman Dhamane’s rise to fame serves as an inspiration, showing that with the right support and mindset, it’s never too late to start something new—even in the ever-evolving world of social media.