In a concerning development, Bollywood actress Alia Bhatt has once again fallen prey to the growing issue of deepfake videos. The latest incident involves a video shared on Instagram, depicting Bhatt partaking in the popular “get ready with me” trend, where she is seen donning a black kurta and applying makeup.
This is not the first time Bhatt has been the subject of such AI-generated synthetic media. Previously, a deepfake video featuring her face merged with that of actress Wamiqa Gabbi had gone viral on social media. Another deepfake showed a woman making inappropriate gestures with Bhatt’s face superimposed.
The proliferation of these deepfake videos has sparked outrage and concern among social media users. Many have expressed apprehension over the misuse of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology, with one user stating, “AI is getting dangerous day by day.” Another commented, “I am getting scared of AI now,” while a friend of Bhatt’s remarked, “I hope you have consent for using the AI that uses real human faces.”
Deepfakes, created using sophisticated algorithms to manipulate visual and audio elements, have become a growing concern in the digital landscape. Several other Bollywood celebrities, including Rashmika Mandanna, Kajol, Katrina Kaif, Aamir Khan, Ranveer Singh, and Sara Tendulkar, have also fallen victim to such synthetic media.
In response to this worrying trend, the Indian government has advised social media platforms like Instagram and X to ensure that users do not violate the prohibited content rule of the IT Act. Additionally, the Centre has stated that the creation and circulation of deepfakes carry a strong penalty of ₹1 lakh in fine and three years in jail.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also flagged the misuse of AI for creating deepfake videos, calling it a “big concern.” He has emphasized the importance of using technology responsibly during these times of Artificial Intelligence.
As the issue of deepfakes continues to raise concerns, it remains to be seen what further steps will be taken to combat this growing threat to the privacy and integrity of individuals, particularly prominent public figures like Alia Bhatt.
