Influencer’s Tragic Death Highlights Social Media’s Mental Health Toll
The recent passing of 24-year-old content creator Misha Agrawal has cast a spotlight on the intense pressures of social media, as her family confirmed she took her own life on April 24, 2025, just days before her 25th birthday. According to a statement shared by her sister, Mukta Agrawal, on Misha’s Instagram account, the young influencer was devastated by a decline in her follower count, which fueled her battle with depression.
Misha, who had amassed approximately 350,000 followers on Instagram, was fixated on reaching the milestone of one million followers a goal so central to her identity that it was displayed on her phone’s wallpaper. Mukta revealed that Misha’s emotional well-being deteriorated as her follower numbers dropped, leading her to feel “worthless.” Despite her family’s efforts to encourage her to prioritize her mental health and focus on her accomplishments, including a law degree and preparations for the Provincial Civil Services Judicial (PCSJ) exams, Misha remained consumed by the metrics of online validation.
The announcement of Misha’s death was first shared on her Instagram on April 26, stating, “Misha Agrawal, April 26, 2000 -April 24, 2025,” and expressing gratitude for the support her followers had shown. Mukta later elaborated on the cause, noting that Misha’s obsession with social media had overwhelmed her. “She built her entire world around Instagram and her followers,” Mukta wrote, emphasizing that the loss of followers triggered profound distress.
Misha was also the founder of Misha Cosmetics, a brand focused on hair care products. Following her death, Mukta addressed customers via Instagram, requesting patience with order deliveries as the family navigates their grief, assuring them that all orders would be fulfilled.
The tragedy prompted a response from actor Taapsee Pannu, who took to Instagram to express her sorrow and concern about the dangers of seeking validation through social media. In a post reported by Pannu described the incident as a long-feared outcome of the growing obsession with digital metrics.