Social media influencer Apoorva Mukhija, known as The Rebel Kid, has responded to the controversy surrounding her appearance on India’s Got Latent. She released a YouTube video on April 9 titled Till I Say It Is. Earlier in the day, Mukhija informed her followers on Instagram that she would discuss her experience on the show and the events that followed. In the video, she spoke about her decision to participate in comedian Samay Raina’s show and detailed how the situation escalated.
Mukhija addressed criticism over remarks made during the episode, which later led to legal implications. She specifically spoke about an inappropriate comment directed at her by a male participant. She described her reaction as an immediate response to the discomfort and disrespect she felt at that moment. "You don’t expect that statement in front of a live audience. When I said that, it genuinely didn’t come from a place of being funny or creating a moment on Latent or being savage. It genuinely came from anger and retaliation," she said.
Mukhija said that she never intended to hurt anyone except for one individual’s ego. She acknowledged, however, that her words ended up offending many people, something she never wanted to happen. "I genuinely create content to entertain people and make them laugh. I never wanted to hurt anybody. I am very sorry. I should have been more mindful of my words, but I have learned my lesson and I promise I will do better going forward," she added.
She also expressed disbelief over an FIR being registered against her. She described the emotional toll it took on her family and became emotional while recounting the ordeal. Mukhija also announced that she will donate the earnings from her latest video to NGOs that support victims of acid attacks, rape, and domestic violence.
The controversy surrounding India’s Got Latent erupted after Apoorva Mukhija made a controversial comment about a contestant on the show, which was hosted by comedian Samay Raina. Fellow panelist Ranveer Allahbadia also faced backlash for a remark about parents’ intimacy. His comment sparked public outrage and led to legal action. An FIR was filed against Allahbadia, Raina, Mukhija, and content creator Ashish Chanchlani. They were later summoned by Maharashtra Cyber Cell and the National Commission for Women for questioning.
Mukhija returned to Instagram on Tuesday. She posted multiple slides revealing the disturbing rape and death threats she has received over the past few months.