TIME’s list of the 100 most influential people in AI 2024 is out, and as expected, it features some of the biggest names in the tech world. In the list, you can see the popular names like CEO of Google and Alphabet Sundar Pichai, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg. These leaders have shaped the AI landscape, influencing everything from cutting-edge research to the technology we interact with daily.
But here’s where things get interesting—making a surprising appearance on the list is Anil Kapoor, one of India’s most iconic actors. If, like me, you’re wondering what a Bollywood star is doing among AI leaders, read along to find out.
In September 2023, actor Anil Kapoor achieved a landmark legal victory in a New Delhi high court over unauthorised AI use of his likeness. “Every actor has the right to protect themselves,” Kapoor told Variety.
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Kapoor, best known for his role in the Oscar-winning ‘Slumdog Millionaire’ and numerous Bollywood hits, initiated the case after encountering a surge of distorted AI-generated videos, gifs, and emojis bearing his likeness. He also sought protection for his famous catchphrase “jhakaas,” or “awesome” in Hindi, which he originally used in the 1985 film ‘Yudh’. The court sided with Kapoor, restraining 16 defendants from misusing any aspect of his persona—including his image, voice, and name—for financial gain or otherwise.
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Bollywood, one of the largest film industries globally, is confronting AI misuse as a growing concern. Kapoor’s ruling comes at a time when the industry is dealing with the fallout of deepfake videos and AI-generated content. Last year, viral deepfakes featuring top female stars Alia Bhatt and Rashmika Mandanna caused a stir. Also, AI-generated clips of actors Aamir Khan and Ranveer Singh criticising Prime Minister Narendra Modi created alarm during India’s elections.
Kapoor’s victory has set an example for other public figures seeking to protect their identity.