Girija Oak Godbole reacts to morphed photos going viral: ‘I have a 12-year-old son, when he grows up…’
Marathi actor Girija Oak Godbole, who recently caught attention for her stunning blue saree look, has addressed the issue of AI-morphed pictures and videos of her circulating on social media. Taking to Instagram, she shared heartfelt video messages in Hindi, English, and Marathi, expressing both her amusement and concern regarding the sudden surge in attention.
Girija began by acknowledging the mixed responses she has received. “Many of my friends, relatives, and acquaintances have been sending me posts and memes. Some of them are ridiculously funny and very creative, but some are AI-morphed images of me that are not in good taste. They sexualize and objectify me, and it makes me uncomfortable,” she explained.
The actress, who is well-versed in digital platforms, spoke about the viral nature of such content. “I’m someone who lives in this digital age. I use social media myself, so I understand how it works. When something goes viral or starts trending, these kinds of images usually get made and circulated. As long as people are clicking, liking, and engaging, the cycle continues. But what bothers me is that this game has no rules — nothing seems to be off limits.”
Girija also shared her personal concerns, particularly as a mother. “I have a 12-year-old son. He doesn’t use social media yet, but eventually he will. Once he grows up, he’s going to come across these images. They may be circulating now, but they will remain on the internet forever. These obscene images of his mother are something he will see one day. He’ll know they’re not real — they’re AI-generated, just as everyone who sees them now knows they’re fake — but they still give people a cheap thrill, a kind of titillation. That is scary. I know I can’t do much to stop it, but doing nothing doesn’t feel right either.”
Addressing those involved in creating or sharing such content, Girija offered a candid appeal. “So here I am, requesting this: if you are someone who uses AI to morph images of women, men, or anyone into something inappropriate, please think twice. If you don’t create this content but enjoy consuming it, you are also part of the problem. I can only ask you to reconsider. Apart from that, I am also having fun with the sudden attention, and if it leads more people to watch my films, series, or plays, what more could I ask for? I hope you continue to support my work, and I’ll strive to keep giving you good performances. See you in the theaters. Thank you.”
Meanwhile, Girija Oak Godbole is set to feature in the upcoming web series Therapy Sherapy, alongside Gulshan Devaiah. The show delves into complex human emotions and relationships, though an official release date is yet to be announced.
