Riva Arora honoured with PhD degree in Digital Influence at 19, internet reacts
A 19-year-old influencer and actress, Riva Arora, received an honorary Doctor of Philosophy degree for her contributions to digital media and women's empowerment.
Social media influencer Riva Arora was known for her roles as a child artist in films like 'Bharat and Uri: The Surgical Strike'.
She shared the news on her Instagram handle by sharing photos of her holding the degree.
She was wearing a black western outfit with a red convocation gown and cap, representing her degree.
She was holding the certificate and showcasing it while posing in different styles for the clicks despite having an injured foot.
Have a look:
Sharing the photos, she captioned, "It’s Dr. (H) Riva Arora now!!! Reaching this milestone is a dream come true, and I couldn’t be more proud of what I’ve achieved. Doctor of Philosophy (Honoris Causa) in Digital Influence & Women’s Empowerment—‘In Recognition of Exceptional Leadership in Digital Media, Inspiring Millions, and Pioneering Women’s Empowerment at a Remarkably Young Age.’"
She also expressed gratitude, saying, "I’m incredibly grateful for @keshvanandag and @sachingupta1208, who supported me along the way. Here’s to new adventures, continued learning, and embracing all the possibilities that lie ahead!"
Riva has 11.5 million Instagram followers—more than several Indian celebrities like Nayanthara (9.9 million), Karisma Kapoor (8.5 million), Suhana Khan (6 million), and even Rajinikanth (1.2 million).
Netizens reaction
Many social media users questioned how she got her doctoral degree at the age of 19.
A critic remarked, "Seriously? Are they giving PhD degrees at this age? Because of followers, they’ve turned PhDs into a joke."
Another asked, "How did you get this degree… any logic?"
A third user joked, "This is great! Got a degree without studying!"
Another commented, "Age – 18 years, Degree – PhD. Nice joke."
A comment read, “Everything chukti mein for these influencers.”
Another said, “(Paisa lo degree do) is se koi is field ka question puchna chalu karo toh ek answer nhi aana hai is ko (Degrees being sold for money. Ask her something about this field and she won't know a single thing).”