Debate Over Traditional Education V/S Social Media Fame

A recent social media post by an IIT alumnus has stirred intense debate online, highlighting the contrasting journeys of traditional education versus social media fame.

In the post, the user recounts the personal sacrifices made to crack India’s most difficult engineering exam, gain admission to the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), and endure six years of academic pressure, mental strain, and job placement anxiety. The post reads, “Studied 14 hrs a day to crack India’s toughest engineering exam, gave up home, friends, cousins, sleep, and dreams – got into IIT, then fought for 4+2 years with CGPA nightmares, lab viva trauma, and placement tension. Today? Not even 100 people know me."

The user then compares the struggles with the success of Apoorva Mukhija, better known online as The Rebel Kid, who built a Rs 41 crore empire making Instagram reels and reportedly earns Rs 2.5 lakh a day. “Meanwhile… reels, red lipstick, semi-nudes, and openly abusing, using BC MC as filler can make Rs 41 crore empire. World’s truly fair," it added. The post sparked criticism from several users for comparing the two career options.

One user replied, “You studied for 14 hours a day for IIT, got selected, will get a good job – that’s what you chased and achieved. Kudos to you. She chose fame, must have worked hard for it, and got what she chased – kudos to her. Comparing apples with oranges is ridiculous. Reason for our misery."

Another user emphasised personal choice, writing, “I don’t even like that girl but you chose to study 14 hrs, cracked the toughest exam, it was all your choice, you liked/wanted it. Same way that the girl is doing whatever she likes or wants. This isn’t a competition bro. Take a chill pill."

Mukhija has carved a unique space for herself among India’s most influential digital creators. Known for her bold, unapologetic content and relatable storytelling, she has recently grabbed headlines for her earnings. According to reports in Business Today, she earns around Rs 2.5 lakh per day, thanks to her funny videos, reality show appearances, and brand campaigns.

This news makes this IITian feel pity for his hardship of achieving a prestigious career.