Chiranjeevi to Address AI-Morphed Video Controversy with Telugu Film Bodies
Megastar Chiranjeevi has announced plans to engage with key Telugu film industry organizations to address the growing misuse of artificial intelligence, following the circulation of a morphed video featuring Jr NTR and Janhvi Kapoor. The video, which digitally altered Janhvi Kapoor's appearance from the song Chuttamalle in the 2024 film Devara: Part 1, has drawn widespread condemnation from industry figures.
Industry Response and Proposed Measures
Chiranjeevi stated he will consult with the Telugu Film Chamber, the Producers' Council, and other affiliated bodies to establish a dedicated committee and support cell. This proposed system aims to work in coordination with cybercrime authorities to assist victims of digital abuse, facilitate the removal of unauthorized content, and pursue legal action against those responsible for its creation and dissemination. Chiranjeevi emphasized that such acts are cruel and unacceptable, noting that the issue extends beyond any single individual or film.
Condemnation of AI Misuse
Jr NTR, who co-starred with Janhvi Kapoor in Devara: Part 1, previously issued a strong statement condemning the video as "disgusting, sick and shameless." He vowed to take legal action against those involved in creating and spreading the content. Other industry figures, including Vijay Deverakonda and Khushbu Sundar, have also publicly supported the actors and condemned the weaponization of AI to degrade women. Khushbu Sundar stressed that a person's dignity should not be treated as content for entertainment.
Chiranjeevi urged the Telugu film fraternity, including artists, technicians, and fans, to unite against digital abuse. He also appealed to the Central and State Governments to implement stricter regulations regarding the misuse of AI. The actor advised the public not to watch, download, or share such videos, even for the purpose of condemnation, and instead to report them to social media platforms and cybercrime authorities.
Why synthetic celebrity video needs careful attribution
A believable AI-morphed video can circulate independently of the person it depicts, making the original upload and any public response important evidence. A viral clip should not be treated as the actor's actual words or actions unless its origin is authenticated. Film-industry complaints can raise questions about consent, reputation and platform responsibility, but legal outcomes depend on the jurisdiction and precise use. Viewers should preserve uncertainty around unverified clips and rely on verified statements or original recordings rather than reposts that may have been edited further.