In the quiet suburbs of Greater Faridabad, a mother’s world collapsed on February 24, 2022. Aarti Malhotra, a single mother and former teacher at Delhi Public School, lost her only son, 16-year-old Arvey Malhotra, to suicide. Arvey jumped from the top floor of their residential building while Aarti was away. He left behind a heartbreaking suicide note that read, “The school has killed me,” accusing school authorities and bullies of relentless torment.
Arvey had endured severe bullying and alleged sexual harassment, largely tied to perceptions of his sexuality. Classmates reportedly mocked him with slurs, calling him “gay,” “chhakka,” and “ladkiyon jaisa.” Despite repeated complaints from Arvey and his mother, the school administration failed to take meaningful action. The pain became unbearable, leading to a tragedy that no parent should ever face.
Many in Aarti’s position might have chosen silence, retreating into private grief. Instead, through unimaginable loss, she transformed her sorrow into a mission of compassion and advocacy.
A New Purpose: Becoming a Digital Mother
Aarti Malhotra emerged as @internetkimummy on Instagram, earning the affectionate title “Internet Ki Mummy” from the thousands of young people who now turn to her for support. What began as sharing memories of Arvey—his poems, his dreams, and the circumstances of his death—evolved into a safe digital haven. She offers guidance, emotional support, motivational talks, and a listening ear to children and teenagers battling loneliness, abuse, rejection, bullying, and mental health struggles.
Her platform goes beyond comfort. Aarti actively campaigns for systemic change:
- Stricter anti-bullying laws in schools
- Better implementation of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act
- Greater accountability for educational institutions that ignore student distress
- Awareness around supporting queer youth and preventing queerphobic bullying
Even four years later, in 2026, Aarti continues to fight for justice. She has held protests, including one at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, alongside other parents who lost children to bullying. She faces delays in the judicial process, threats, and institutional inaction, yet she persists.
A Legacy of Resilience
Arvey’s story is not just one of loss—it is a call to action. Aarti often shares how her son was a sensitive, loving child who questioned his identity in a world that responded with cruelty. She reminds parents and educators that every child deserves safety, acceptance, and support.
Through her journey, Aarti Malhotra shows the extraordinary strength of motherhood. In choosing to become a virtual mother to thousands, she ensures that Arvey’s pain was not in vain. Her work creates ripples of kindness, reminding vulnerable young people that they are seen, they are valued, and they are not alone.
On days like Mother’s Day or during mental health awareness initiatives, stories like hers highlight the urgent need for empathy in schools, homes, and online spaces. Aarti’s message is clear: grief can break us, but it can also rebuild us into forces for good.
If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out. Helplines in India such as iCall (022-25521111), AASRA (91-9820466726), or local child protection services are available. And if you need a mother’s warmth online, Aarti Malhotra’s platform stands ready.
In honoring Arvey, she is protecting countless others. That is the true power of a mother’s love.
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