Bollywood star Mrunal Thakur has delivered a forceful message to those behind the creation and dissemination of AI-generated deepfake content featuring her image, declaring that she will pursue legal action against any further misuse of her identity. The actress took to her Instagram Story on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, to address the escalating issue, marking a significant move in the industry’s fight against digital manipulation.
Mrunal Thakur Issues Stern Warning Against Deepfakes
In a clear and unequivocal statement, Mrunal Thakur emphasised the illicit nature of such content. “Creating or sharing deepfake content using my likeness is illegal and unacceptable,” she wrote on her Instagram Story. She further added a direct warning, stating, “Consider this your formal notice to stop immediately. Any further misuse of my identity will result in legal action.” While the specific deepfake content that prompted her warning was not disclosed, her message underscores the serious implications of unauthorised digital manipulation of public figures.
Mrunal Thakur Warns of Legal Action Over AI Deepfakes
Thakur’s statement reflects the increasing concern within the entertainment industry regarding AI’s potential for identity theft and reputational harm. Celebrities are particularly vulnerable to deepfakes, which can be used to create manipulated videos and images, often for malicious purposes.
Bollywood Rises Against AI Misuse
Mrunal Thakur’s decisive action places her among a growing list of Indian celebrities who have publicly condemned and initiated legal proceedings against the misuse of AI-generated content. The issue gained significant traction following a viral deepfake video involving actress Rashmika Mandanna, which she described as “extremely scary” in November 2023. Many prominent figures, including Amitabh Bachchan, voiced their support for Mandanna at the time.
Several other Bollywood stars have also taken proactive steps to safeguard their personality rights against AI-driven identity theft. These include:
Preity Zinta reportedly moved the Bombay High Court, leading the court to ask Google and Meta to devise a takedown plan.
Akshay Kumar, Varun Dhawan, Anil Kapoor, Shilpa Shetty, Kartik Aaryan, Suniel Shetty have approached courts over the unauthorised use of their images and voices.
Nagarjuna, Jr NTR, Priyanka Mohan, Rukmini Vasanth have also been targeted by deepfakes or spoken out against AI misuse.
The entertainment industry is grappling with the ethical and legal challenges posed by rapidly advancing AI technology, with a collective push for stricter regulations and accountability. As deepfake technology becomes more sophisticated, celebrities are increasingly relying on legal remedies to protect their digital identities and personal integrity. Mrunal Thakur, last seen in the film Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai alongside Varun Dhawan, where she played the role of Baani, is the latest to draw a firm line, signalling a zero-tolerance policy against such digital infringements.
Her strong warning serves as a crucial reminder of the need for responsible digital citizenship and the severe legal consequences that await those who engage in the creation and circulation of unauthorised AI-generated content.