Chum Darang
- Actress
Chum Darang, a multifaceted talent from Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh, emerged in the entertainment world with a vibrant blend of modeling, acting, and social activism. Hailing from a close-knit family, she first captivated audiences as a beauty pageant star, clinching titles like Miss AAPSU in 2010, Miss Earth India Water in 2016, and Miss Tiara India International in 2017. Her poise and charisma led to a natural pivot to acting, debuting in the gritty Amazon Prime series Paatal Lok in 2020. Chum's breakout came in 2022 with Badhaai Do, where she portrayed Rimjhim Jongkey, a same-sex partner, earning praise for her authentic and heartfelt performance alongside Rajkummar Rao and Bhumi Pednekar. That same year, she showcased her versatility in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Gangubai Kathiawadi, taking on the role of a prostitute. Beyond the screen, Chum channels her entrepreneurial spirit into running Cafe Chu, a beloved Pasighat coffee shop that celebrates local culture. Her commitment to social causes, including environmental conservation and marginalized community support, has earned her recognition from Arunachal's leaders. In 2024, she embraced the high-stakes drama of Bigg Boss 18, finishing as the fourth runner-up and charming viewers with her resilience and wit. Known for her grounded nature and infectious energy, Chum, sometimes credited as Chum Darang, continues to inspire as a trailblazer from Northeast India, breaking barriers and redefining representation in Bollywood.