New Delhi, Oct. 12 -- Indian reality television, long challenged by high costs and inadequate returns, is increasingly turning to social media influencers and creators to headline shows, particularly streaming originals. Titles such as Lock Upp, The 50, Social Currency, The Traitors, Rise and Fall and The Tribe have tapped into creators' popularity and fan bases, creating a new category of shows and an additional revenue stream for these personalities.

Entertainment industry experts say this is a natural progression. Reality shows have always relied on personalities who can draw eyeballs and keep audiences engaged. Today, creators already have large, highly involved communities that follow their lives, opinions and personalities. Their g...