Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Jan 2: Veteran lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar has strongly condemned the circulation of a deepfake video featuring his computer-generated image and warned of legal action against those responsible for spreading what he termed as “fake news”.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday, Akhtar issued a clarification, stating that a fabricated video showing his digitally altered image wearing a cap and making claims about turning to God is entirely false.
“A fake video is in circulation showing my fake computer-generated picture with a topi on my head claiming that ultimately I have turned to God. It is rubbish,” Akhtar wrote.
Expressing serious concern over the misuse of technology to tarnish reputations, the acclaimed writer said he is considering approaching the cyber police. “I am seriously considering reporting this to the cyber police and ultimately dragging the person responsible for this fake news, and those few who forward it, to court for damaging my reputation and credibility,” he added.
The fake video surfaced shortly after Akhtar participated in a high-profile public debate titled ‘Does God Exist?’ with Islamic scholar Mufti Shamail Nadwi at the Constitution Club of India in New Delhi. The debate, which centred on faith, reason, and evidence, quickly went viral on social media, triggering intense discussions and divided reactions.
Known for his secular and atheistic views, Akhtar questioned traditional theistic arguments, while Mufti Nadwi defended belief in God through logic, philosophy, and theology. While some viewers praised the mufti’s responses, others found Akhtar’s arguments compelling, with the exchange reigniting broader conversations on faith and public discourse in India’s pluralistic society.
Earlier, Javed Akhtar had also made headlines for penning an emotional birthday note for his filmmaker daughter Zoya Akhtar, fondly recalling the day she was born. Akhtar was earlier married to writer Honey Irani, with whom he has two children — Farhan Akhtar and Zoya Akhtar. He later married National Award-winning actress Shabana Azmi in 1984.