Deepika Padukone fans criticise Dhruv Rathee over skin-lightening claims

Content creator and political commentator Dhruv Rathee has sparked a social media backlash after claiming in a recent video that several Bollywood actors, including Deepika Padukone, have undergone skin-lightening treatments.

Rathee’s video, uploaded on YouTube and widely circulated on Reddit, named multiple actresses such as Bipasha Basu, Shilpa Shetty, Kajol and Priyanka Chopra, alleging that changes in their complexion over the years were the result of cosmetic interventions rather than natural factors. He suggested that glutathione injections are a commonly used method for skin lightening in the film industry.

The remarks drew sharp reactions from Deepika Padukone’s fans, many of whom dismissed the claims as speculative and unfounded. Several users argued that differences in lighting, camera quality, makeup, tanning trends and post-production editing can significantly affect how an actor’s complexion appears on screen.

Defending the actor, fans pointed out that Padukone’s earlier appearances coincided with a phase when bronzed looks and tanning were popular in Bollywood. Others noted that natural skin tone can vary with sun exposure, skincare routines and age, especially for individuals with melanin-rich skin.

Some fans also questioned Rathee’s intent, linking the controversy to his recent criticism of the film Dhurandhar, which stars Ranveer Singh. Rathee had earlier described the film as “engaging propaganda,” a remark that triggered backlash from the actor’s supporters as well.

Social media reactions ranged from calling out what users saw as moral policing to emphasising personal choice. Several commenters said an individual’s appearance and personal decisions should not be subjected to public scrutiny, while others accused the YouTuber of selectively targeting high-profile celebrities.

The debate has since expanded beyond Padukone, reigniting discussions around beauty standards, celebrity image management and the role of influencers in commenting on personal aspects of public figures’ lives.