Kristen Hanby and Jackson O'Doherty on visiting India, meeting Jacqueliene Fernandez, Sanjay Dutt and more

Within a mere 12 hours of setting foot in India, international influencers Kristen Hanby (7.4M followers) and Jackson O'Doherty (10.1M followers) have experienced the quintessential Indian welcome. From being garlanded at the airport to taking a thrilling ride in a customized rickshaw, the duo has been immersed in the vibrant culture of the country.
"We've only been here about 12 hours and I feel like we've completed so many quests already," Kristen Hanby remarks, still reeling from the excitement. Jackson O'Doherty chimes in, "We had a ride in the town in custom tuk-tuks with our names written on it. Everyone here has been so welcoming and friendly."
The influencers also made a dance video featuring Bollywood star Jacqueliene Fernandez on her hit number Yimmy Yimmy. "She is more like us - energetic, loud, and fun. We had a bit of a laugh," Jackson O'Doherty says, while Kristen Hanby adds, "I knew she was gonna be cool, but she was a lot cooler."

The duo also met Dutt on Friday, who they fondly call ‘Baba’ like the rest of us. "He has a gangster presence," Hanby notes, while O'Doherty quips, "He's just very cool, calm, collected. He's our best friend."
Despite being aware of the enormity of Bollywood in India, the influencers are mindful of their demeanor. "It's just about reading the room sometimes and making sure that we kind of match the energy and we don't come across as disrespectful, or too loud or arrogant. We don't want to put the wrong taste in people's mouths. We are crazy, funny dudes, but we also don't want to rub people up the wrong way," O'Doherty explains.
The Australian influencer also expressed his desire to meet cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar. "I know a little bit about the Bollywood scene, but I love cricket. I've watched cricket my whole life. So, obviously, I know Shane Warne, Brett Lee, some Australian famous players who used to come here. So, I've learned a little bit over the years. Sachin Tendulkar is one of my favorite players of all time. Of course, in my top three favorite batsmen ever."
Hanby and O'Doherty are eager to explore India's rich culture and history, as well as connect with their sizable fan base in the country. "We really wanted to learn more about the culture and the history of India. We have a huge fan base between the both of us over here as well. Yeah, we've talked about coming here for years, and I just started harassing Kristen recently saying let's book flights. And after about a week of annoying him, he said, 'Yes, let's do it'. So here we are," O'Doherty recounts.
Their Indian escapade will include a plethora of exciting experiences, including a haircut from a local barber, traveling in a local train, savoring street food, and discovering the spiciest dish in Mumbai. "We are just excited to try everything, and we don't want to shy away from anything," Hanby concludes.