Actress Rashmika Mandanna has finally spoken about the disturbing deepfake video circulating online. The 'Pushpa' actress conveyed her distress through a heartfelt post on Instagram and X. The viral video showcased Rashmika in a lift wearing shorts and a vest. Upon fact checking, it was found out that the video has been modified using Deepfake technology where Rashmika's face was used on someone else's video.
Reacting to the same, Rashmika wrote, "I feel really hurt to share this and have to talk about the deepfake video of me being spread online. Something like this is honestly, extremely scary not only for me, but also for each one of us who today is vulnerable to so much harm because of how technology is being misused."
She further added, "Today, as a woman and as an actor, I am thankful for my family, friends and well wishers who are my protection and support system. But if this happened to me when I was in school or college, I genuinely can’t imagine how could I ever tackle this. We need to address this as a community and with urgency before more of us are affected by such identity theft."
(Also Read: Disha Patani Seen In Bold Saree Look At Diwali Party, Netizens Call It 'Vulgar')
In the midst of this unsettling situation, it was discovered that the woman featured in the viral elevator video was not Mandanna but British-Indian influencer Zara Patel. The use of deepfake technology to morph Patel's face into Mandanna's has sparked widespread shock and outrage across the internet. Veteran actor Amitabh Bachchan, who previously shared screen space with Mandanna in the film Goodbye, called for legal repercussions, demanding accountability for such manipulative acts.
Additionally, Union Minister Rajeev Chandrashekhar echoed the sentiments, emphasizing the responsibility of social media platforms in combating the dissemination of misinformation. As the issue gains traction, it highlights the growing necessity for stricter regulations and collective efforts to address the growing threat of identity theft and the misuse of technology.
Despite the disturbing incident, Mandanna remains focused on her upcoming projects, including the highly anticipated film 'Animal', where she will be seen alongside the charismatic Ranbir Kapoor. Fans can also look forward to her appearance in the much-awaited film 'Pushpa: The Rule', opposite Allu Arjun, scheduled for release next year.
The technology behind deepfakes allows for the manipulation of both facial features and voices, leading to fears of potential misuse for fraudulent activities, such as financial theft. Many internet users have expressed their worries and are calling for governmental intervention to regulate and prevent the misuse of deepfake technology. This unsettling trend of creating deepfakes has become a growing concern, especially for female celebrities.
(Also Read: Isha Malviya's Intimate Moments With Samarth In Bigg Boss 17 SHOCKS Her Parents)