Vijay Deverakonda has strongly condemned the AI-generated video involving Janhvi Kapoor from Chuttamalle, calling the misuse of artificial intelligence a serious form of digital abuse. The actor's reaction came after Jr NTR, who starred alongside Janhvi in Devara: Part 1, spoke out against the disturbing clip and threatened legal action.

An altered version of Chuttamalle has been circulating on social media, with AI used to manipulate Janhvi's appearance and create sexually explicit visuals that were not part of the original song. The clip has sparked renewed concerns over the misuse of AI to create non-consensual sexualised content involving public figures.

Responding to Jr NTR's statement, Vijay did not hold back. He described the situation as a disturbing reflection of how AI is being misused and called for those responsible to face serious legal consequences.

“We have stooped to the levels of absolute lowlife,” Vijay wrote.

He added that whoever was responsible “should not be spared” and should face the “harshest possible legal consequences”.

Questioning the wider social attitude towards such content, Vijay also asked when people had become so insensitive to one another and why anyone would find entertainment in degrading another person.

He further pointed out the irony of people worrying about AI taking away jobs while others are using the technology to create abusive and harmful material.

“This is the digital equivalent of sexual assault. The law must treat such acts with utmost seriousness,” Vijay said, while extending his support to those taking a stand against the video.

Jr NTR threatens legal action over AI-morphed video

Jr NTR was among the first celebrities to publicly react to the clip. Calling it “disgusting, sick and shameless”, the actor said AI had been used to depict a woman in a degrading manner.

He warned those behind the video that he would pursue every possible legal option against both the creators and those spreading it. He also urged people not to watch, share or engage with the clip, pointing out that anyone could potentially become a target of such misuse.

Jr NTR also called on state governments and the Centre to introduce stronger safeguards against the misuse of AI.

Chiranjeevi also calls for action

The controversy has also drawn a response from Chiranjeevi, who said he was “deeply disturbed” by the use of AI to create degrading and morphed content involving a woman.

The veteran actor said those who create, deliberately circulate or amplify such material must be held accountable. He also said he plans to take the issue up with the Telugu Film Chamber, Producers’ Council and other industry bodies.

Chiranjeevi suggested setting up a dedicated committee and support cell that could work with cybercrime authorities to help people affected by such content, coordinate takedown efforts and pursue legal action. He also urged people not to download or circulate the video, even while condemning it.

What is the original ‘Chuttamalle’ song about?

Chuttamalle is one of the popular songs from ‘Devara: Part 1’, which starred Jr NTR and Janhvi Kapoor.

Composed by Anirudh Ravichander and sung by Shilpa Rao, the romantic track features Janhvi's character Thangam expressing her feelings for Jr NTR's Devara. The original video was filmed against beach and natural landscapes and presented the romantic chemistry between the two characters.

The AI-morphed clip, however, has no connection to the original song's content. It digitally alters footage to create explicit imagery that was never part of the film or music video.