Mumbai, October 17, 2025 — In a significant step against the misuse of artificial intelligence, the Bombay High Court has directed the immediate removal of a deepfake video featuring Akshay Kumar as Maharishi Valmiki. The court termed the video “alarming” and “deeply concerning,” highlighting that such AI-generated content poses a serious threat to public order and violates the actor’s personality rights.
The ruling came as an ad-interim relief in Akshay Kumar’s lawsuit against unidentified individuals and online platforms that circulated the manipulated video. The actor sought to protect his image, voice, and likeness from unauthorised use in deepfake content, which he argued infringed on his intellectual property and moral rights.
Court’s Observations: ‘Deepfakes Are Frighteningly Real’
Justice Arif S. Doctor, who presided over the case, expressed concern about the realistic nature of modern AI manipulations.
“What is truly alarming is the realistic nature of these deepfake videos being created through Artificial Intelligence,” Justice Doctor noted.
The court observed that the level of AI sophistication in such clips makes it virtually impossible to identify whether a video is real or fabricated. The specific clip under scrutiny depicted Akshay Kumar as Maharishi Valmiki in a fake film trailer, and in some versions, the actor was seen making communal statements, which the court found highly dangerous.
Threat to Public Safety and Social Harmony
The court warned that deepfake content like this goes beyond individual harm. It can disturb public peace and endanger lives.
“The consequences of such content are grave and serious,” the court said. “It not only affects the plaintiff’s moral rights but also endangers his family’s safety and can disrupt public order.”
Justice Doctor ruled that the video must be removed from the public domain immediately, citing the larger public interest at stake. Following the order, social media platforms and websites were instructed to take down or block access to the offending material.
Akshay Kumar’s Legal Fight Against AI Misuse
Akshay Kumar’s petition also targeted the broader misuse of his persona through AI, including voice cloning, fake advertisements, counterfeit merchandise, and deceptive promotions. His legal team, led by Senior Advocate Birendra Saraf, presented examples of previous deepfakes — including one portraying Kumar as a political leader — that had gone viral before removal.
The actor emphasized that these fakes not only harm reputations but also manipulate public sentiment, especially in sensitive times.
India’s Legal Stand on Deepfakes
This ruling is a landmark in India’s growing legal battle against AI-driven misinformation. The judgment builds on similar Bombay High Court orders granted to other public figures, such as Asha Bhosle and Suniel Shetty, who have faced deepfake misuse.
Legal experts believe this case will set a strong precedent for protecting celebrity personality rights in the digital era. The matter will be heard again in November 2025, as courts continue to explore ways to balance free expression with AI accountability.
The Larger Concern
Deepfakes have become a pressing issue in India’s media and political landscape, especially during election periods. As generative AI tools become more accessible, experts warn of their potential to spread false narratives and incite communal unrest.
The Bombay High Court’s order is a clear message — technology must not cross ethical or legal boundaries, especially when it endangers public trust and safety.
