Digital creator Apoorva Mukhija, widely known by her social media handle "The Rebel Kid," has sparked a heated debate online after sharing a video of her preparations for the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival 2026. The influencer is facing criticism for prioritising "aesthetics over dharma" after she was filmed cutting off a kalava-a sacred red thread used in Hindu rituals to suit her festival attire. Is Apoorva Mukhija Dating Amin Jaz? The Rebel Kid’s Photos With Podcaster Go Viral Amid Her Kalava Cutting Row.

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Influencer Slammed for Cutting Sacred Thread

The backlash stems from a Get Ready With Me (GRWM) transition clip where Mukhija showcased her styling process for the California-based music festival. In the video, Mukhija addressed the thread directly before removing it. "My priest told me not to cut this thread off... but if anything can come between my aesthetic Coachella pictures, it’s me and only me," she stated in the clip. The act of cutting the kalava, which is traditionally allowed to fall off naturally or is untied rather than cut with scissors, immediately became a focal point for viewers. Critics argued that the move was disrespectful toward religious sentiments for the sake of social media imagery.

Social Media Reaction

The video triggered a wave of disapproval across platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram. Many users accused the creator of treating religious symbols casually to boost engagement. One viral comment on X read, "Rebel Kid Apoorva cutting her kalava for a music festival. Liberal girls like her make everything a joke." Meanwhile, her Instagram comment section was flooded with similar sentiments, including remarks such as, "No outfit in this world is worth removing my Kalava" and "Aesthetic is more than dharma??" Some followers even jokingly warned of "bad luck," with one user commenting, "Thread cut, now the next video will be 'how I went to hospital in Coachella.'" ‘Acid Attacks, Rape and Death Threats’: Apoorva Mukhija Aka the Rebel Kid Makes Bold Comeback on Instagram After ‘India’s Got Latent’ Row (View Posts)

Despite the heavy criticism, a section of Mukhija's audience defended her, citing personal agency and individual choice. Supporters argued that religious practices are deeply personal and that public figures should not be held to a singular standard of tradition. "At the end of the day, it's her life and her choice," one supporter wrote. "Everyone has different beliefs, and it's not fair to judge someone so harshly for a personal decision."

Apoorva Mukhija Silent Amid Kalava Row

Apoorva Mukhija, who has built a massive following through her candid and often rebellious persona, has not yet issued a formal statement regarding the controversy. Known for her high-energy travel vlogs and fashion content, this incident highlights the growing tension between modern influencer culture and traditional values in the digital space.

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 22, 2026 01:07 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).