Apoorva Mukhija defends best friend Rida after online backlash: 'This is the last thing I wanted' 

Apoorva Makhija reacts to online backlash on Rida

Currently making headlines for her comeback after India's Got Latent controversy, social media influencer Apoorva Mukhija has finally defended her friend Rida Tharana after the latter was the target of online criticism.

Following the India's Got Latent controversy, Apoorva's recent video, in which she claimed that a friend was using black magic on her, sparked the controversy. Many on social media assumed Apoorva was referring to Rida, despite the fact that she did not name anyone.

In an attempt to clear the air, Apoorva took to her Instagram Stories, writing, “Following my video, there have been far too many assumptions and unwarranted hate. While I genuinely appreciate everyone who has stood by me, this outcome is the last thing I intended. My goal was simply to share my personal experience and emotions—nothing beyond that. Please, let’s not jump to conclusions or spread further negativity.”

She also shared a heartwarming picture of herself hugging Rida, captioned, “Only love for @rida.tharana”.

Rida, too, responded on Instagram, sharing a heartfelt note about her current struggles. She revealed that she has been caring for her unwell mother and financially supporting her family since last year. “I hosted friends for Iftar to lift my mum’s spirits. For the first time in ages, she smiled, laughed, and truly enjoyed herself,” she wrote.

Addressing the allegations indirectly, Rida stated, “I refuse to give endless justifications. This is Apoorva’s moment, and I won’t cast a shadow on it. It’s painful to see everything I’ve done twisted and misinterpreted. Women existing freely are often resented.”

She admitted the last two months had been especially tough. “If I wanted to fake something, I’d have chosen an easier path. I’m not chasing fame. I just want to take care of my loved ones, travel a bit, and live quietly,” she added.

Rida concluded with, “Yes, I’ve stumbled into the fire. It burns. But I’m still standing. To those who stayed and chose empathy over judgement—thank you.”

Also Read: Ranveer Allahbadia, Apoorva Mukhija face legal action for ignoring cyber cell summons

In contrast, Apoorva disclosed in her video Till I Say It Is that she went to see a tarot reader, who validated her suspicions that her best friend Rida was the one performing "kala jaadu," or black magic, on her.

The situation follows the India’s Got Latent backlash, where Apoorva and others, including YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia, faced criticism for controversial comments made during the show. Multiple FIRs have since been filed, and all episodes were taken down by creator Samay Raina.