On social media, Aarti Malhotra goes by the name “Internet Ki Mummy,” and she’s basically the internet’s mom.
But she was Arvey’s mother first.
Arvey was Malhotra’s teenage son, and he lit her life up “like a rainbow.” Despite living in a conservative community in Faridabad, India, Malhotra encouraged Arvey to be himself.
But at school, he was often bullied for being gay, once to the point of being sexually assaulted.
By age 16, Arvey had found an online community where he could express himself, wearing earrings, makeup, and a saree for Diwali. But the video soon spread beyond his friends, and the comment section turned hateful. A few days later, Arvey died by suicide.
In the wake of his passing, Malhotra — a schoolteacher and staunch LGBTQ+ activist — turned to the internet to share her son’s story. Over time, young Indians ashamed of their identity began looking to her as a “virtual ma.”
“These parents remain silent, failing to advocate for their children’s rights,” Malhotra wrote in Orato. “In contrast, these brave kids express pride in my efforts, and I commit to ensuring they can lead healthy lives.”
Malhotra regularly uses her social media platform to fight cyberbullying and share resources for teenagers struggling with depression and suicidal thoughts.
“Now, I am dedicated to fighting for justice, not only for Arvey but for all those who have suffered at the hands of bullies,” she continued. “Arvey left me with a profound responsibility — to fight for LGBTQ+ rights and stand against bullying. His simple desire for love and acceptance went unfulfilled, but I will continue to fight so that others may find the acceptance they deserve.”
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Featured Image: Screenshot via @internetkimummy/Instagram
