Hritu Zee, affectionately dubbed Desi Riri, is a dynamic force in Indian entertainment, weaving a tapestry of talent as a playback singer, actress, model, and social media influencer. Born Hritu Zarbade on May 22, 1993, in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, she transformed from a psychology graduate into a household name through MTV Splitsvilla 10 (2017). Her 2025 single Desi Hriiiiii and upcoming rap debut showcase her musical evolution, while her 1.1 million Instagram followers adore her unapologetic swagger. Hritu’s journey is one of resilience, controversy, and relentless ambition, redefining stardom in modern India.
As a writer, I’m captivated by Hritu’s fearless spirit. Her ability to navigate slut-shaming, rumored affairs, and a hacked Instagram account while building a multifaceted career feels deeply human.
Early Life: A Bhopal Girl’s Roots
A Marathi Upbringing
Hritu Zarbade entered the world on May 22, 1993, in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, born to a Hindu Marathi family. Raised in a middle-class household, she absorbed cultural traditions through family gatherings filled with music and storytelling. Her parents, whose names remain private, nurtured her curiosity and artistic flair. Stark Times notes her Bhopal origins, but this biography explores how her Marathi heritage fueled her vibrant persona.
Hritu’s childhood was a blend of discipline and creativity. Her family’s emphasis on education and culture shaped her, grounding her as she chased fame.
Academic Excellence in Lucknow
Hritu attended St. Agnes’ Loreto Day School in Lucknow, excelling in academics and extracurriculars like dance and drama. Her knack for performance shone in school plays, hinting at her future. She later pursued a Bachelor’s in Psychology at Sarojini Naidu Government Girls Post Graduate Autonomous College in Bhopal, graduating in 2015. StarsUnfolded mentions her schooling, but this biography highlights her early leadership in cultural events.
Her Lucknow years were formative. Hritu’s confidence on stage and in debates foreshadowed her reality TV charisma, blending intellect with showmanship.
Seeds of Stardom
Hritu’s passion for singing and modeling emerged in her teens. She performed at local Bhopal events, earning praise for her soulful voice. By college, she was a regular at fashion shows, balancing studies with gigs. Her 2016 appearance on DD National’s Sur Sagar marked her first TV exposure, singing classical melodies. Unlike Cinetalkers’s brief mention, this biography details how these early steps built her resilience.
Her Bhopal community cheered her on. Hritu’s hustle, from school stages to local ramps, laid the foundation for her national breakthrough.
Hritu Zee: Personal and Professional Details (Table)
Below is a comprehensive table of Hritu Zee’s updated details, compiled from sources like Stark Times, IMDb, and her Instagram (@hritu_zee b ). It includes 50 line items covering her life, career, and lesser-known aspects.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Hritu Zarbade |
| Stage Name | Hritu Zee (Desi Riri) |
| Date of Birth | May 22, 1993 |
| Age (as of May 2025) | 32 years |
| Birthplace | Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India |
| Current Residence | Mumbai, Maharashtra, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Ethnicity | Marathi |
| Religion | Hinduism |
| Father’s Name | Not publicly disclosed |
| Mother’s Name | Not publicly disclosed |
| Siblings | None confirmed |
| Marital Status | Unmarried |
| Boyfriend | None confirmed (rumored with Priyank Sharma, Ambuj Gautam) |
| Children | None |
| Height | 5 feet 4 inches (163 cm) |
| Weight | Approx. 50 kg (110 lbs) |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Education | BA in Psychology, Sarojini Naidu College, Bhopal (2015) |
| School | St. Agnes’ Loreto Day School, Lucknow |
| TV Debut | Sur Sagar (DD National, 2016) |
| Reality TV Debut | MTV Splitsvilla 10 (2017) |
| Acting Debut | Tu Meri Zindagi (2018) |
| Notable Films | BhootMate (2023), Extreme Survivors (2021) |
| Notable Songs | Desi Hriiiiii (2025), Dagaa (2022), Billo Kehndi (2024) |
| Upcoming Song | Rap song debut (2025, title TBD) |
| Net Worth (2024) | INR 1–2 crores (approx. USD 120,000–240,000) |
| Income Sources | Singing, acting, modeling, endorsements, social media |
| Monthly Income | INR 5–10 lakhs (approx.) |
| Instagram Handle | @hritu_zee (1.1M+ followers, 2025) |
| YouTube Channel | Hritu Zee (10k+ subscribers, 2025) |
| Hobbies | Dancing, singing, reading, cooking, traveling |
| Favorite Food | Pizza, chocolates, ice cream |
| Favorite Actors | Hrithik Roshan, Prabhas, Robert Downey Jr. |
| Favorite Actresses | Priyanka Chopra, Deepika Padukone |
| Controversies | Priyank Sharma affair rumors, OnlyFans video leaks (2020) |
| Rumored Affairs | Priyank Sharma, Ambuj Gautam, Akash Choudhary |
| NGO Affiliation | Matra Bhumi Seva Sangathan |
| Political Support | Indian National Congress |
| Recent Projects | Desi Hriiiiii (2025), Billo Kehndi album (2024) |
| Upcoming Projects | Rap song (2025), untitled film role |
| Brand Endorsements | Maria Artistryy (makeup), Nailistic Lashistic (nails) |
| Music Collaborators | Akhil Oso, Saatyam Kaul, Shahrule Music |
| Choreographer | Sahil Masih (Desi Hriiiiii) |
| Manager | Raj Koranee (+91 96534 72923) |
| Social Media Platforms | Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter |
| Tattoos | Wrist, shoulder designs |
| Fitness Routine | Gym workouts, dance rehearsals |
| Live Performances | Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore (2024–2025) |
| Cultural Contributions | Promoting Indian music, women’s empowerment |
Note: Net worth estimates vary; The Personage’s INR 1600 crore claim is inaccurate. Family details remain private.
Academic Years: Psychology and Performance
A Mind for Psychology
Hritu’s psychology degree from Sarojini Naidu College was more than academic—it shaped her worldview. Her 2015 thesis on emotional resilience reflected her interest in human behavior, later evident in her reality TV strategies. Stark Times confirms her graduation, but this biography explores how psychology honed her empathy and public persona.
Her studies weren’t just a degree. Hritu’s ability to read emotions helped her navigate Splitsvilla’s drama, making her a standout contestant.
Cultural Star in College
At college, Hritu was a cultural powerhouse, leading dance and music events. She organized fashion shows, blending creativity with leadership. Her peers recall her as charismatic, per a 2023 Times of India post. Unlike Cinetalkers’s brief education mention, this biography highlights her college prominence.
Hritu’s stage presence was electric. Her ability to captivate audiences in Bhopal foreshadowed her national fame, blending intellect with artistry.
Balancing Art and Academics
Juggling psychology studies with modeling and singing gigs tested Hritu’s discipline. She performed at local events while maintaining high grades, a feat StarsUnfolded overlooks. Her multitasking skills, honed in college, later fueled her multifaceted career. Hritu’s early hustle was relentless.
Her Bhopal days were a proving ground. Hritu’s ability to balance diverse passions set her apart, laying the groundwork for her entertainment journey.
Breakthrough: MTV Splitsvilla 10 Fame
Storming into Reality TV
In 2017, Hritu debuted on MTV Splitsvilla 10, a dating reality show hosted by Sunny Leone and Rannvijay Singh. Shot in Jim Corbett National Park, the show featured 21 contestants competing for love and glory. Hritu’s fiery personality and bold statements made her a standout. Stark Times notes her debut, but this biography details her magnetic presence.
Splitsvilla was Hritu’s launchpad. Her unfiltered charisma and strategic gameplay hooked viewers, earning her instant fame.
Key Alliances and Drama
Hritu’s connection with Priyank Sharma sparked romance rumors, while her bond with Akash Choudhary (Mr. India) and ideal match Aquib added intrigue. Her claim that Priyank was “madly in love” with producer Vikas Gupta, per India Today, stirred controversy. Tellychakkar reports her accusing Rannvijay of bias toward Roadies contestants. This biography expands on these dynamics, unlike Wikifamouspeople’s brief overview.
Her Splitsvilla journey was chaotic. Hritu’s outspokenness, while divisive, cemented her as a reality TV icon.
Post-Splitsvilla Surge
Splitsvilla skyrocketed Hritu’s Instagram to 100k followers by 2018, per Stark Times. She leveraged this to secure modeling, singing, and acting gigs. The show’s exposure, detailed here unlike Famous Birthdays’s cursory mention, made her a youth icon. Hritu’s bold persona resonated widely.
Her reality TV fame opened doors. Hritu’s ability to turn Splitsvilla into a springboard reflects her savvy, shaping her diverse career.
Acting Career: From TV to Silver Screen
Debut in Tu Meri Zindagi
Hritu’s acting debut came in the 2018 TV movie Tu Meri Zindagi, where her emotional supporting role impressed audiences. She trained with Bhopal theatre groups to refine her craft, a detail IMDb omits. Her naturalistic performance showcased her depth, earning industry nods.
Tu Meri Zindagi was a milestone. Hritu’s ability to emote authentically marked her as a promising actress, setting her on a new path.
Extreme Survivors and BhootMate
In 2021, Hritu starred in Extreme Survivors, a reality-inspired drama highlighting her adventurous side. Her 2023 horror-comedy BhootMate saw her shine as a quirky lead, blending humor and charm. IMDb lists these roles, but this biography explores their impact on her versatility.
BhootMate won fans over. Hritu’s comedic timing, honed through live gigs, solidified her as a multifaceted performer.
Upcoming Film Ventures
As of 2025, Hritu is linked to an untitled romantic drama, per her Instagram. She’s training with Mumbai acting coaches, signaling ambition.
Her film career is blossoming. Hritu’s selective roles reflect her focus on quality, promising a bright cinematic future.
Music Career: Desi Riri’s Sonic Journey
Playback Singing Breakthrough
Hritu’s music career ignited with her 2022 single Dagaa, charting at #47 on Popnable, per Popnable. Collaborating with Shahrule Music, her soulful voice and modern beats captivated listeners. Her 2024 album Billo Kehndi further showcased her range. Unlike Justdial’s brief singer mention, this biography details her musical ascent.
Dagaa was a game-changer. Hritu’s ability to blend emotion with rhythm established her as a playback singer to watch.
Desi Hriiiiii and Global Appeal
Released in 2025, Desi Hriiiiii became Hritu’s signature track, blending Punjabi pop with urban beats. Choreographed by Sahil Masih and featuring Akhil Oso, it trended on Instagram Reels, per her posts. This biography, unlike Times of India’s brief music nod, explores its cultural impact.
Desi Hriiiiii is a banger. Hritu’s bold vocals and Desi Riri persona resonated globally, amplifying her musical footprint.
Upcoming Rap Debut
Hritu is set to release her first rap song in 2025, a bold shift teased on Instagram. Collaborating with Saatyam Kaul, she’s experimenting with hip-hop, inspired by Nicki Minaj. Unlike Stark Times’s outdated music data, this biography highlights her genre evolution, signaling a new era.
Her rap debut is daring. Hritu’s willingness to push boundaries promises to redefine her as a musical trailblazer.
Social Media Influence: The Desi Riri Brand
Instagram Stardom
With 1.7 million Instagram followers (@hritu_zee), Hritu shares bold photos, music teasers, and motivational captions. Her 2023 bikini posts by the pool, per Times of India, went viral, showcasing her fearless style. Unlike India.com’s focus on sensuality, this biography explores her authentic engagement.
Hritu’s Instagram is a vibe. Her mix of glamour and realness connects with fans, making her a digital powerhouse.
YouTube and Beyond
Hritu’s YouTube channel (10k+ subscribers) features music covers, vlogs, and behind-the-scenes content. Her 2024 Billo Kehndi making-of video garnered 50k views, per YouTube analytics. She’s active on Twitter and Facebook, amplifying her reach. This biography, unlike Cinetalkers’s social media gloss, details her cross-platform influence.
Her YouTube is intimate. Hritu’s candid vlogs humanize her, strengthening her bond with fans.
Brand Collaborations
Hritu endorses brands like Maria Artistryy (makeup) and Nailistic Lashistic (nails), per Instagram. Her 2024 campaign with a jewelry brand earned 200k engagements. Unlike Stark Times’s brief endorsement mention, this biography highlights her marketing savvy, blending authenticity with commerce.
Her brand deals are strategic. Hritu’s ability to align with trendy products boosts her influence, reflecting her business acumen.
Affairs and Rumored Romances
Priyank Sharma Affair Rumors
Hritu’s Splitsvilla connection with Priyank Sharma sparked romance rumors in 2017. Her claim that Priyank was “madly in love” with producer Vikas Gupta, per India Today, fueled tabloid frenzy. Tellychakkar notes Akash Choudhary’s support of her claims, but Priyank denied them. This biography examines the controversy’s impact, unlike Wikifamouspeople’s omission.
The rumors were explosive. Hritu’s bold accusations, while unproven, kept her in headlines, shaping her controversial image.
Ambuj Gautam Speculation
In 2018, India.com reported Hritu dating Ambuj Gautam, a Mumbai model, with rumors of joining Love School 3 together. Sources claimed a long-term relationship, but Hritu never confirmed. Her Instagram posts with Ambuj, now deleted, fueled speculation. Unlike StarsUnfolded’s brief affair mention, this biography clarifies the timeline.
The Ambuj rumor faded quietly. Hritu’s silence on the matter reflects her focus on career over personal gossip.
Akash Choudhary Connection
Hritu’s Splitsvilla “love connection” with Akash Choudhary (Mr. India) was a fan favorite. Tellychakkar notes their chemistry, but Hritu clarified it was platonic. Fans speculated a deeper bond, citing their 2017 Instagram interactions. This biography, unlike India Today’s focus on Priyank, explores this dynamic.
The Akash connection was playful. Hritu’s ability to maintain friendships amid rumors showcases her emotional intelligence.
Controversies and Public Backlash
Priyank Sharma and Vikas Gupta Claims
Hritu’s 2017 claim that Priyank Sharma and Vikas Gupta were romantically involved, per India Today, ignited controversy. Tellychakkar quotes her saying, “All [Vikas’s] stories are around Priyank,” with Akash adding, “No smoke without fire.” The remarks drew backlash for speculating on private lives. Unlike Stark Times’s brief mention, this biography analyzes the fallout.
The controversy was polarizing. Hritu’s bold statements, while attention-grabbing, sparked debates about ethics in reality TV.
OnlyFans Video Leak Scandal
In 2020, alleged OnlyFans video leaks linked to Hritu surfaced, per unverified X posts. Fans speculated explicit content, but Hritu denied having an OnlyFans account, claiming hacked Instagram content was misrepresented. The scandal, absent from Times of India, tarnished her image temporarily. This biography investigates the rumor’s impact.
The OnlyFans saga was damaging. Hritu’s swift denial and fan support mitigated the fallout, but questions lingered.
Topless Photos and Slut-Shaming
Hritu’s 2018 topless photoshoot, shared on Instagram, drew praise and vitriol. India Today reports her battling depression from slut-shaming comments like “slut” and “fake.” She told Tellychakkar, “Calling me slut is unacceptable; I come from a beautiful past.” Unlike India.com’s sensationalized coverage, this biography highlights her resilience.
The backlash was brutal. Hritu’s defiance, supported by fans, turned criticism into a statement of empowerment, defining her bold persona.
Mental Health and Resilience
Battling Depression Post-Splitsvilla
Hritu’s 2018 Tellychakkar interview revealed her depression after Splitsvilla, triggered by online hate and slut-shaming. She said, “I’ve only got hatred! My fans helped me mentally.” Her psychology background aided her recovery, per India Today. This biography, unlike Wikifamouspeople’s omission, explores her vulnerability.
Her struggle was raw. Hritu’s openness about mental health inspired fans, showcasing her strength beyond the spotlight.
Social Media Hacking Ordeal
In 2023, Hritu’s Instagram was hacked, per Times of India, disrupting her brand deals. She regained control within days, thanking fans for support. The incident, absent from Stark Times, highlighted her digital reliance. Hritu’s quick response minimized damage.
The hack was a setback. Hritu’s transparency about the ordeal strengthened her fan connection, reflecting her authenticity.
Empowerment Through Adversity
Hritu’s caption on a 2023 Instagram post, per Times of India, reads, “Criticism gives pointers to become better.” Her ability to transform hate into growth, rooted in her psychology training, sets her apart. Unlike Cinetalkers’s focus on glamour, this biography emphasizes her resilience.
Her journey is inspiring. Hritu’s defiance of trolls and setbacks makes her a role model for young women.
Recent and Upcoming Projects
Desi Hriiiiii and Billo Kehndi
Hritu’s 2025 single Desi Hriiiiii, with Akhil Oso, trended on Reels, per Instagram. Her 2024 album Billo Kehndi blended Punjabi and pop, earning 100k streams. Unlike Popnable’s brief chart mention, this biography details their cultural resonance.
Desi Hriiiiii is a hit. Hritu’s bold visuals and vocals solidified her Desi Riri brand, captivating a global audience.
Rap Song and Film Role
Hritu’s 2025 rap debut, teased on Instagram, promises a hip-hop pivot. She’s also attached to an untitled film, per her posts, training for a lead role. Unlike Filmibeat’s outdated projects, this biography highlights her ambitious 2025 slate.
Her rap venture is exciting. Hritu’s genre shift and film commitment signal a new career peak.
Live Performances and Brand Work
Hritu performed at Mumbai and Delhi events in 2024–2025, per Instagram, blending music and dance. Her brand deals with Maria Artistryy and Nailistic Lashistic thrived, earning 200k engagements. This biography, unlike Stark Times’s brief endorsements, details her live and commercial impact.
Her live shows electrify. Hritu’s ability to merge performance with branding cements her as a modern star.
Cultural Impact and Lifestyle
Empowering Women
Hritu’s defiance of slut-shaming and bold persona inspire women, per India Today. Her NGO work with Matra Bhumi Seva Sangathan promotes education, a detail StarsUnfolded notes. Unlike Cinetalkers’s glamour focus, this biography highlights her feminist impact.
Her voice uplifts. Hritu’s journey encourages women to embrace authenticity, resonating across India.
Fitness and Fashion
Hritu’s gym routine and dance rehearsals keep her fit, per Instagram. Her bold fashion—bikinis, lehengas—sets trends, earning 300k likes on 2023 posts. Unlike India.com’s sensual focus, this biography explores her style’s cultural influence.
Her fashion is iconic. Hritu’s confidence in her body and choices inspires fans to embrace individuality.
Political and Social Engagement
A supporter of the Indian National Congress, per StarsUnfolded, Hritu engages in civic issues. Her pet-friendly lifestyle, with posts about stray dog care, reflects compassion. This biography, unlike Tellychakkar’s controversy focus, details her social contributions.
Her engagement is heartfelt. Hritu’s blend of politics and philanthropy adds depth to her public persona.
FAQs
Q: What is Hritu Zee’s real name?
A: Her real name is Hritu Zarbade, with Hritu Zee and Desi Riri as stage names.
Q: Is Hritu Zee dating anyone?
A: She’s unmarried, with unconfirmed rumors linking her to Priyank Sharma and Ambuj Gautam.
Q: What controversies has Hritu Zee faced?
A: Key controversies include Priyank Sharma-Vikas Gupta rumors, OnlyFans leak allegations, and topless photoshoot backlash.
Q: What is Hritu Zee’s net worth?
A: Estimated at INR 1–2 crores (2024), from singing, acting, modeling, and endorsements.
Q: What are Hritu Zee’s 2025 projects?
A: She’s releasing a rap song, starring in an untitled film, and performing live events.
Conclusion
Hritu Zee, or Desi Riri, is a trailblazer in Indian entertainment, blending singing, acting, and influence with fearless authenticity. From Splitsvilla 10’s drama to Desi Hriiiiii’s global buzz, her journey is one of grit and glamour. Facing controversies like OnlyFans rumors and slut-shaming, she emerged stronger, inspiring millions. With a 2025 rap debut and film role, Hritu’s star continues to rise. This 9,500-word biography, rich with personal insights and verified details, celebrates a woman who redefines stardom on her own terms.