Delhi(The COW News Digital)Renowned Indian screenwriter and poet Javed Akhtar has expressed strong disapproval over a viral AI-generated video depicting him in a religious light, and is reportedly considering legal action.
The video circulating on social media shows Akhtar wearing a cap, holding a rosary, and draped with a red scarf over his shoulder. The clip claims that the celebrated poet and writer has “turned towards God,” a statement that Akhtar vehemently denies.
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The AI-generated footage appears to have been inspired by a recent televised debate where Akhtar faced off against Mufti Shmail Nadvi, founder of the Wahiyan Foundation, on the topic of the existence of God. During the discussion, Akhtar reportedly struggled to provide satisfactory answers to certain questions, which was highlighted in the media coverage of the event.
Despite the debate, Akhtar has publicly stated on multiple occasions across various platforms that he does not believe in God or adhere to any religious doctrine. The viral video, therefore, contradicts his long-standing personal views and has sparked widespread discussion online.
In a post on the social media platform X, Akhtar criticized the manipulation of the AI-generated video, calling it misleading and false. The video’s circulation has raised concerns about the ethical use of artificial intelligence in creating content that misrepresents public figures.
Legal experts note that AI-generated misrepresentations of real individuals may fall under defamation or privacy violations, depending on the jurisdiction, and high-profile personalities like Akhtar are increasingly turning to formal legal avenues to protect their image.
The viral nature of the video also highlights the challenges of digital misinformation in the era of AI technology. While AI offers creative and innovative possibilities, the misuse of such tools can easily distort reality, especially in politically, socially, or culturally sensitive contexts.
Akhtar’s reaction underscores the importance of verifying the authenticity of online content and the potential consequences of spreading manipulated media without consent. Social media users have been urged to exercise caution and refrain from sharing videos that could misrepresent or harm public figures.
As the debate over AI and ethics intensifies globally, Javed Akhtar’s case may serve as a reference point for discussions on digital responsibility, content authenticity, and legal frameworks surrounding AI-generated media.
