A viral screenshot claiming that Bollywood actor Deepika Padukone publicly supported Sonam Wangchuk’s ongoing hunger strike has sparked widespread discussion across social media. However, the claim is false, as there is no evidence that the actor ever shared the alleged Instagram Story.

The manipulated screenshot gained traction amid growing public interest in Wangchuk’s protest, leading many users to believe that Deepika had broken her silence on the issue. A closer examination, however, shows that the post was fabricated and never appeared on her verified Instagram account.

Viral screenshot turns out to be fake

The image circulating online shows what appears to be an Instagram Story reposted by Deepika Padukone in support of Sonam Wangchuk.

The alleged Story includes emotional messages questioning the silence surrounding Wangchuk’s hunger strike and criticising the current political climate. The screenshot quickly spread across multiple social media platforms, with many users assuming it was authentic.

However, there is no record of the Story being posted on Deepika’s verified Instagram profile. The screenshot also displays signs of digital manipulation, making it clear that it was fabricated.

False claims fuel online debate

The fake post gained momentum because several leading Bollywood stars have not publicly commented on Wangchuk’s protest.

As discussions around the activist’s indefinite hunger strike intensified, many social media users found the alleged Story believable. The absence of any official clarification from Deepika’s social media accounts further contributed to speculation before the claim was debunked.

The incident highlights how manipulated celebrity content can rapidly spread online during politically sensitive events.

Not the first fake post linked to Deepika

This is the second time in recent months that fabricated social media content has been falsely attributed to the actor.

Earlier this year, another edited screenshot falsely claimed that Deepika had shared her review of Ranveer Singh’s film Dhurandhar: The Revenge. That claim also went viral despite there being no evidence that such a post had ever existed.

The repeated circulation of fake screenshots has once again raised concerns about misinformation involving celebrities on social media.

Deepika’s past involvement in public issues

Although Deepika Padukone has occasionally found herself at the centre of public debates, she has not made any verified statement regarding Sonam Wangchuk’s current protest.

One of her most widely discussed public appearances came in 2020, when she visited Jawaharlal Nehru University following an attack on students and faculty members. Her visit attracted significant political attention, although she did not address the gathering or issue any public remarks at the time.

Since then, the actor has largely maintained a cautious approach toward commenting on politically sensitive issues.

Several film personalities support Sonam Wangchuk

While Deepika has not publicly spoken about the protest, several members of the entertainment industry have expressed support for Wangchuk.

Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap shared messages on social media praising Wangchuk’s determination and urging people not to remain silent.

Actors Naseeruddin Shah, Ratna Pathak Shah, Zeenat Aman, Abhay Deol, Omi Vaidya, and singer Kaka have also publicly voiced support for the activist and appealed for dialogue.

Sonam Wangchuk’s hunger strike continues

Sonam Wangchuk remains on an indefinite hunger strike at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar after joining protests linked to the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak.

The protest seeks the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and calls for action over alleged examination irregularities.

As concerns over Wangchuk’s health continue to grow, legal proceedings have also begun regarding medical intervention, with a petition reportedly seeking permission for force-feeding due to fears over his deteriorating condition.

Meanwhile, the viral claim involving Deepika Padukone serves as another reminder that social media users should verify information through official sources before sharing celebrity-related content, particularly during fast-moving news events.

FAQs

1. Did Deepika Padukone support Sonam Wangchuk’s hunger strike on Instagram?

No. There is no evidence that Deepika Padukone shared any Instagram Story supporting Sonam Wangchuk. The viral screenshot is fake.

2. Is the viral Deepika Padukone Instagram Story real?

No. The screenshot circulating on social media has been digitally manipulated and did not appear on Deepika Padukone’s verified Instagram account.

3. Why did the fake post go viral?

The edited screenshot spread rapidly because it appeared during ongoing discussions about Sonam Wangchuk’s hunger strike, making many users believe it was genuine.

4. Has Deepika Padukone commented on Sonam Wangchuk’s protest?

As of now, Deepika Padukone has not made any verified public statement regarding Sonam Wangchuk’s hunger strike.

5. Has Deepika Padukone been targeted by fake social media posts before?

Yes. Earlier this year, another fabricated Instagram post falsely claimed she had reviewed Ranveer Singh’s film, but it was also proven to be fake.

6. Which celebrities have supported Sonam Wangchuk?

Several personalities, including Anurag Kashyap, Naseeruddin Shah, Ratna Pathak Shah, Zeenat Aman, Abhay Deol, Omi Vaidya, and singer Kaka, have publicly supported Wangchuk.

7. Why is Sonam Wangchuk on a hunger strike?

Wangchuk joined protests demanding action over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

8. Where is Sonam Wangchuk protesting?

He is participating in the protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar alongside demonstrators demanding accountability over the alleged examination irregularities.

9. What concerns have been raised about Wangchuk’s health?

His prolonged hunger strike has led to growing medical concerns, and a legal plea has reportedly sought permission for force-feeding due to fears over his condition.

10. How can users verify viral celebrity posts?

Users should rely on verified social media accounts and official statements before believing or sharing viral screenshots or claims circulating online.