Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai

Mumbai, Jul 10: Even as reality show The Traitors concluded with much fanfare, the drama refuses to fade, with tensions between contestants Sudhanshu Pandey and Apoorva Mukhija, popularly known as Rebel Kid, continuing to simmer in the public eye.

The spark was reignited when Sudhanshu recently responded to Apoorva’s claims that he’s using her name for visibility. The veteran actor, known for his composed demeanor, minced no words while responding. “Some people thrive on drama and live in their own little delulu worlds. I spoke about her once, and now she’s out there milking that moment for content,” said Sudhanshu in an exclusive interaction.

Apoorva, on her part, stated in an interview with Money Control that she understands why Sudhanshu keeps mentioning her. “Whose photo will he put in the thumbnail? Whose name will he write in his titles? And about whom will the headline be published?” she questioned, hinting that Sudhanshu was using her for digital clout.

Unfazed, Sudhanshu fired back with poise, saying, “I’ve graced front pages and magazine covers long before thumbnails even existed. It’s amusing to watch people, whose entire relevance is built around clickbait, try and stir something out of nothing.”

Apoorva also claimed that she had apologized to Sudhanshu multiple times over WhatsApp for her conduct on the show. However, the Anupamaa actor said he was taken aback by the sudden change in her tone. “What shocks me more is how hard she’s flipped. The tone in which she messaged me post-show was so warm and apologetic, and I genuinely forgave her. But the moment a camera rolls, she switches — arrogance, attitude, back to square one.”

He added that he has always chosen grace over drama. “I don’t wear masks. I speak my truth, never go low, never hit below the belt. That’s not who I am.”

Wrapping up his remarks with a touch of signature class, Sudhanshu stated, “Unlike others, I don’t need controversy to validate my presence. My career has outlived many people's entire existence in this space. If riding my name gives them some headline joy, they’re welcome to it — consider it a gift from me.”

While The Traitors may be over, it seems the conversations around it are far from finished.