Payal Dhare, better known as Payal Gaming, became emotional while speaking about the deepfake controversy that turned her life upside down last year. During a heartfelt conversation on the reality show The Alliance, the popular gaming creator opened up about the emotional toll the incident had on her and how online abuse made an already painful situation even harder to deal with. Her comments left fellow contestants visibly moved as she revisited one of the most difficult chapters of her career.
The discussion took place in the presence of Ravi Kishan, Nikhil Chinapa and other contestants, where the topic shifted toward the harsh realities of social media. As the conversation unfolded, Payal admitted that the experience still affects her. She explained that while people often celebrate someone’s success, there are also those who try to pull them down in unimaginable ways. Her emotional confession quickly became one of the most talked-about moments from the episode.
Payal Gaming recalls painful deepfake controversy
While sharing her experience, Payal said, “People are so sensitive now. Koi ek word bhi aapke against ja sakta hai. Mujhe bolne mein bhi sharam aa rahi hai ki log itna hadd tak gir sakte hain. When they see a person growing. They mocked my image; they made a deepfake video of me. I mean…”
Unable to continue speaking, Payal broke down in tears. She later revealed that she had chosen to fight back legally instead of staying silent. According to her, the individuals responsible for creating and circulating the fake content are now behind bars. Her statement reflected not just the emotional damage caused by the incident but also her determination to seek justice rather than letting the matter fade away.
Nikhil Chinapa comforted her during the conversation and acknowledged the additional challenges women face in the digital space. He said, “It is tough being a girl because you get ridiculous attention, which is unnecessary. Your work is on the internet, so you have to develop a thicker skin. You cannot fight back with idiots.” His remarks highlighted the constant scrutiny many female creators experience simply because of their online presence.
AI-generated video sparked major controversy
The controversy dates back to last year when an intimate video spread rapidly across social media platforms. Many users claimed without evidence that the woman seen in the clip was Payal Gaming. The rumours gained momentum quickly, exposing the creator to widespread trolling and personal attacks before any official verification had taken place.
The matter was later investigated by the Office of the Additional Director General of Police, Maharashtra State Cyber Department. A forensic examination concluded that the viral clip had been manipulated using artificial intelligence. Officials confirmed that the video was created with AI-powered deepfake technology and did not depict Payal. The findings became another reminder of how rapidly advancing AI tools can be misused to spread misinformation and target public figures.
The incident also added to the growing debate around digital safety in India. As AI-generated content becomes increasingly realistic, experts and lawmakers have repeatedly raised concerns about stronger regulations, quicker investigations and better legal safeguards for victims whose identities are exploited through deepfake technology.
Fans extend support after emotional confession
After the episode aired, clips of Payal’s emotional moment quickly circulated across social media. Many viewers praised her courage for speaking openly about an experience that had deeply affected her mental well-being. Several users also renewed calls for tougher laws against those who misuse artificial intelligence to create fake and damaging content.
One fan wrote, “No one deserves to have their identity, dignity, or mental peace stolen in the name of technology. AI is a powerful tool, but in the wrong hands, it can destroy lives. It’s time for stricter laws against deepfakes and stronger protection for victims. Behind every viral clip is a real human being with real emotions.”
Another supporter commented, “It takes courage to speak about such painful experiences. No one should have their dignity stolen because of someone else’s misuse of technology.” The response reflected growing public concern over the misuse of AI and the emotional consequences such incidents can have on victims.
Payal Dhare, popularly known as Payal Gaming, remains one of India’s biggest female gaming creators. As a member of S8UL Esports, she has earned a loyal following through her Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) streams and gaming content. Despite the challenges she has faced off-screen, she continues to be one of the most recognisable faces in the country’s gaming community, with many fans appreciating her resilience and willingness to speak out against online abuse.
