Popular content creator and influencer Apoorva Mukhija, better known to her millions of followers as Rebel Kid, has officially left India. In a recent announcement that left fans surprised, Apoorva confirmed that she has relocated to New York City to pursue higher education and experience a completely different lifestyle.
Sharing a snippet from her latest appearance on the Untriggered By AminJaz podcast, Apoorva posted a simple but clear message on her Instagram Stories: “Soo… I don’t live in India anymore.”
But why would a top influencer leave behind a thriving career, a luxurious home, and massive fame in India to live in a student dorm in Manhattan? Here is everything you need to know about Rebel Kid’s big move.
Why Did Apoorva Mukhija Choose New York?
During the podcast, Apoorva revealed that her decision to move to the US was driven by her profound love for New York City. Having traveled extensively, she felt an instant connection when she first landed in the Big Apple.
“There is something about that city. It’s so fast. Everyone is so well-dressed. The food is great. I love the architecture. And I have seen New York in almost every single web series that I love,” she explained.
Her determination to live in NYC was so strong that she only applied to one single college. “I was like if I get in, I get in and I will go. And I got in,” she shared.
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The Real Reason Behind Her MBA
While Apoorva has moved to New York to pursue an MBA, she candidly admitted that the degree itself isn’t meant to boost her professional career. She has no intention of ever working a traditional 9-to-5 job, noting that she already makes a lot of money and could start a business at any time.
Instead, the move is deeply personal. Apoorva shared that she wants to break out of her current social bubble.
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Escaping the Influencer Bubble: Living in Mumbai, Apoorva felt her social circle was entirely restricted to other content creators. “My thinking has become very limited… I just want to meet new people who don’t care about this world,” she confessed. College provides the perfect avenue to build a fresh, diverse network.
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Experiencing True College Life: Apoorva completed her B.Tech in Computer Science from Jaipur, but she feels she missed out on the quintessential college experience. Between the COVID-19 lockdown and spending all her time with her then-boyfriend, she admitted she “really f***** it up” and now wants a chance to enjoy a proper student life.
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Leaving the ‘India’s Got Latent’ Controversy Behind
Apoorva’s move also comes after a turbulent period online. In early 2025, she faced immense backlash and was heavily trolled for her appearance on Samay Raina’s India’s Got Latent alongside Ranveer Allahbadia. The controversy escalated to the point where FIRs were filed, and Apoorva even received death and rape threats.
Speaking about the toll of being “cancelled,” Apoorva admitted she is exhausted by the constant cycle of facing backlash and having to make a comeback. She noted that the “kaleshi aurat” (drama-prone woman) persona is dead, and she is prioritizing her peace of mind.
Will Rebel Kid Stop Making Content?
Fans wondering if this is the end of Rebel Kid’s vlogs might have to brace themselves for a slowdown. Apoorva revealed that she doesn’t naturally feel like pulling out her camera to record her life anymore. Moving forward, she plans to create content only when she feels like it, or when she is contractually obligated for brand deals.
While she acknowledges the immense privilege of leaving behind a comfortable life in India with full-time help and a booming career, Apoorva is ready to embrace the struggles and excitement of dorm life in Manhattan.
