An image surfaced online around New Year, showing Shah Rukh Khan, Gauri Khan, and Aryan Khan against the backdrop of the Grand Mosque in Mecca. The claim was that the Khan family visited the holy city on the first day of the year. The photo quickly gained traction across social media platforms and news outlets.
The Truth Behind the Image
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Upon investigation, it was revealed that the photo was not real but AI-generated. Some Instagram users who shared the image openly stated that it was created using artificial intelligence. This has raised concerns over the growing misuse of AI to fabricate events and manipulate public perception.
Growing Concerns About Deepfakes
Deepfake technology has increasingly been used to target celebrities. Instances in India include fake videos involving Rashmika Mandanna, Katrina Kaif, and Aamir Khan. Globally, the UK has reported thousands of cases of deepfake pornography affecting public figures.
The Shah Rukh Khan photo is a stark reminder of how easily AI can generate convincing but false imagery, contributing to misinformation.
The Khans’ Religious Harmony
Shah Rukh Khan and Gauri Khan, married since October 25, 1991, have often spoken about mutual respect for each other’s religions. Gauri shared on Koffee With Karan that while she respects Shah Rukh’s faith, she values maintaining her individuality. Similarly, SRK praised Gauri’s role in keeping the family grounded in love and harmony during an #AskSRK session on X.