Nikki dowry death: Probe reveals more shocking details, Vipin was against her making Insta reels and parlour business

The tragic death of 26-year-old Nikki Bhati, allegedly set on fire by her husband Vipin and in-laws, has taken a grim turn as investigators reveal that her social media activity and plans to reopen her beauty parlour fueled marital tensions.

Police sources told TOI that Vipin disapproved of Nikki making Instagram reels and her plan to restart the parlour with her sister Kanchan. The sisters had operated the parlour until six months ago, but constant disputes with their in-laws—who reportedly seized their earnings—forced them to close it down.

“Vipin asked her to stop making videos, but Nikki continued. She also told him she would soon reopen the parlour. This led to a heated argument, and the subsequent violence,” said Kasna SHO Dharmendra Shukla.


On August 21, just hours before the attack, Nikki and Kanchan had an argument with their mother-in-law over a reel they were filming inside a makeshift “studio” in their house. Police said this dispute spiraled into the brutal incident where kerosene was poured over Nikki and she was set on fire.

Disturbing videos, allegedly recorded by Kanchan, show Vipin dragging Nikki by her hair and mocking her to “make a video.” Another clip shows Nikki engulfed in flames, stumbling down a staircase.

What has happened so far

Investigators have uncovered a pattern of domestic violence and harassment in Nikki Bhati’s case, though evidence of dowry demands has not yet been established.

A senior officer said: “So far, we haven’t found evidence of dowry, but there were repeated incidents of domestic violence. Vipin was also in contact with other women, which further strained ties.”

Nikki’s father, Bhikhari Singh Payla, however, maintains that dowry demands were part of the abuse. He alleged that Vipin and his family had been pressuring Nikki for money and a car, while also accusing Vipin of having an affair.