A digitally manipulated Instagram screenshot falsely claimed that actress Deepika Padukone supported the hunger-strike protest of Sonam Wangchuk [1].
This incident highlights the growing challenge of celebrity-based misinformation used to amplify political narratives. By fabricating a high-profile endorsement, bad actors can create a false sense of momentum for social movements, potentially misleading the public about the actual level of celebrity backing for specific causes [2].
Fact-checkers confirmed the viral post was fake [1]. The image circulated on Instagram, suggesting that Padukone had voiced her support for Wangchuk's protest [2]. However, no such post exists on the actress's official social media channels, and the evidence points to a fabricated screenshot designed to look authentic [1].
While the post involving Padukone was a hoax, other public figures have engaged with the movement. Swara Bhaskar expressed support for Wangchuk's protest [2]. The contrast between the authentic support from Bhaskar and the fabricated support attributed to Padukone underscores the volatility of social media trends during active protests.
Misinformation of this nature is often used to lend perceived legitimacy to a cause by associating it with global stars [2]. In this case, the manipulation targeted Padukone, one of India's most visible celebrities, to broaden the reach of the hunger-strike narrative [1].
Digital forensics and manual verification of official accounts remain the primary tools for debunking such claims. Users are encouraged to verify posts directly on the official profiles of public figures rather than relying on screenshots shared by third parties [1].
“Fact-checkers confirmed the viral post was fake.”
The use of 'deepfake' or manipulated imagery to simulate celebrity endorsements is a growing tactic in digital information warfare. When authentic support, such as that from Swara Bhaskar, is mixed with fabricated claims, it creates a blurred reality that makes it harder for the public to discern genuine grassroots movements from manufactured trends.
