The online world is currently buzzing with the fallout between content creator Apoorva Mukhija, also known as "The Rebel Kid," and her ex-boyfriend, Utsav Dahiya. Dahiya, an investment banker and social media personality, recently released a song and accompanying statement that seemingly accuses Mukhija of cheating and using their relationship for content. Mukhija has responded with cryptic messages on social media, hinting at laughing off the allegations.
Dahiya's post, which went viral, features a song titled "Cute Little Red Flag," a phrase Mukhija often uses in her videos. The lyrics allude to being called "ghatiya" (disgusting) and being dismissed as a "nobody" after the breakup. Dahiya also claims that Mukhija wanted to reconcile solely for content and that she used the "ghatiya" label to boost social media engagement. He further alleges that he caught Mukhija cheating.
In his Instagram caption, Dahiya wrote, "Never try to gain sympathy by fabricating lies or pushing false narratives just to make content and assassinate someone's character online". He also stated that when he reached out to Mukhija and her agency after being falsely painted as a cheat and abuser, he was told, "You're a nobody, you should be happy you got to date her". He followed by saying, "So here's a message from that 'nobody': you tried your level best (and I won't lie, it wasn't easy), but I'm still here, still standing. That should tell you something: your big numbers only matter on an app. There's a real and much bigger world outside - beyond lies and kalesh".
Mukhija's response has been indirect. She posted Instagram stories that read, "I just randomly got over it, and now I can't stop laughing" and "I only learn my lesson when I teach it to myself". While she didn't directly address Dahiya's accusations, many interpret these posts as a reaction to the situation.
The controversy has drawn mixed reactions online. Some have called Dahiya's song a "classy revenge," while others have criticized him for airing their dirty laundry. Many are also scrutinizing Mukhija's past behavior and content, where she has often alluded to "toxic" ex-boyfriends without naming names.
Adding to the drama, Mukhija's friendship with fellow content creator Sufi Motiwala has also ended. Motiwala stated that he distanced himself due to her lack of support against online trolls targeting him. Several other of Mukhija's friends, including Rida Tharana, Anunay Sood, and Jannat Zubair, have also unfollowed her on social media.
This public feud highlights the complexities of relationships in the age of social media. When relationships are monetized and played out online, breakups can become messy and very public. The Apoorva-Utsav breakup serves as a reminder of how fragile relationships can be under the internet spotlight.