Every now and then, the internet throws up a phrase so random it borders on absurd. Yet somehow, it becomes a cultural wave. That’s exactly what’s happening with “Nano Banana” — a bizarre yet addictive trend born on Google’s Gemini app. What began as a playful prompt experiment is now transforming into a full-scale creative movement in India, with thousands of users generating their own free 3D figurines using nothing more than a photo and a few clever instructions.
The Birth of a Viral Idea
The Nano Banana phrase first appeared as a joke in AI communities, where users tested unusual prompts to see how Gemini would react. Most expected nonsense. Instead, they got something strangely fascinating — quirky outputs, mini stories, and figurine-like renderings that looked straight out of a collectible store.
Once screenshots hit X, Instagram, and Reddit, the trend exploded. Soon enough, Indian users picked it up, adding their own desi flavor. What started as a niche experiment turned into a viral craze, with hashtags like #NanoBanana and #3DFigurine dominating timelines.
According to Mumbai-based content creator Neha Sharma, “We’ve had memes before, but this feels different. It’s not just about laughing at a joke — it’s about actually creating something that looks tangible, like a mini version of yourself.”
How Indians Are Making Free 3D Figurines
The real magic lies in Google Gemini’s 2.5 Flash Image tool, which powers the Nano Banana experience. The tool allows users to upload a photo, type a short prompt, and instantly receive a hyper-realistic 3D figurine version.
Here’s the step-by-step process that Indians are obsessing over:
- Open Gemini or Google AI Studio – Select the image generation option.
- Upload a photo or selfie – This acts as the base for the figurine.
- Enter a creative prompt – For example: “Make a collectible figurine of this person on a wooden stand with soft lighting.”
- Generate and refine – If the output isn’t perfect, tweak the prompt.
- Save and share – The figurine can be downloaded and flaunted across social media.
What’s fueling the craze is zero cost. Unlike 3D printing or design software, this tool doesn’t require special hardware or payments. A smartphone and imagination are enough.
The Five Most Popular Prompt Styles
While experimentation is endless, certain prompt styles have caught fire in India:
- Superhero Mode: Turning a selfie into a figurine with capes, masks, and action poses.
- Bollywood Star Figurines: Users imagine themselves as actors on a movie set.
- Historical Twist: Figurines styled as freedom fighters or kings.
- Everyday Quirk: Mini versions of people holding tea cups or sitting in an autorickshaw.
- Fantasy Collectibles: Figurines in anime or gaming style, complete with elaborate props.
Each variation is being shared widely, creating a ripple effect that fuels the trend even further.
Why India Loves It
India’s digital audience has always embraced trends that blend creativity with accessibility. Remember the face-swap apps or cartoon avatar filters? Nano Banana taps into the same instinct — but with more sophistication.
There’s also a cultural aspect. Indians love personalization. Whether it’s WhatsApp stickers, custom ringtones, or now AI figurines, tools that let people stamp their individuality tend to explode in popularity.
Bengaluru tech analyst Raghav Menon points out, “Nano Banana is not just entertainment. It’s a window into how Indians are ready to adopt AI for creative expression. The fact that it’s free makes it even more democratic.”
Social Media and Influencer Boost
The craze wouldn’t have snowballed without influencers. Popular creators on Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts are posting tutorials on how to make figurines, often with funny commentary. Politicians and celebrities have also joined in, either out of curiosity or to stay relevant with younger audiences.
On X, one viral post showed a Nano Banana figurine of a cricket fan holding the World Cup trophy. Within hours, it was trending with thousands of shares.
Potential Downsides and Concerns
Of course, no trend comes without caveats. Experts warn about privacy risks. Uploading personal photos to AI platforms always raises questions about data usage. Though Google maintains that images are processed securely, users are advised to remain cautious.
There’s also the risk of trend fatigue. Like most viral crazes, Nano Banana could fade as quickly as it rose. The challenge will be whether Gemini evolves the feature into something long-term, like integration with AR, VR, or even physical 3D printing.
What This Means for the Future of AI in India
The Nano Banana craze highlights a larger shift: AI tools are no longer restricted to coders or professionals. Students, homemakers, and even grandparents are experimenting with it. This democratization could pave the way for broader AI adoption in India — not just for fun, but also for education, marketing, and even small businesses.
Imagine a local toy shop using Gemini to design collectible figurines of cricket players, or a wedding photographer offering 3D figurine souvenirs to couples. The applications stretch far beyond memes.
Conclusion
Nano Banana may sound silly at first, but its impact is anything but trivial. By combining humor, technology, and creativity, it has shown how deeply AI can seep into popular culture. For Indian users, it’s not just about laughs — it’s about seeing technology as a tool for self-expression and innovation.
Will the craze last? Hard to say. But one thing is certain: Nano Banana has left its peel on India’s digital landscape, proving once again that sometimes the quirkiest ideas make the biggest splash.