Did Deepika Padukone Support Sonam Wangchuk's Hunger Strike? Viral Instagram Story Is Fake

A viral screenshot claiming that actor Deepika Padukone posted and later deleted an Instagram Story supporting educationist and activist Sonam Wangchuk's ongoing hunger strike has been making rounds on social media. The alleged post triggered widespread debate, especially amid questions over Bollywood's silence on the issue.

However, the claim is false.

There is no evidence that Deepika Padukone ever shared the viral Instagram Story, and multiple reports have confirmed that the screenshot circulating online is fabricated.

Viral Deepika Padukone Instagram Story Is Fake

The edited screenshot falsely claims that Deepika reposted a message supporting Sonam Wangchuk's protest along with the caption:

"He is fasting. We are scrolling."

The fabricated image also attributes additional political statements to the actor, including:

• "Why is no one speaking about this? We are living through the darkest hour of democracy."
• "No matter how many films are made to glorify a failed leader, the reality remains unchanged."

However, none of these statements have appeared on Deepika Padukone's verified Instagram account or any of her official social media platforms.

Reports have confirmed that the screenshot was digitally manipulated and that no such Story was ever published.

Second Fake Post Targeting Deepika in 2026

This is not the first time Deepika Padukone has been targeted through fabricated social media posts.

Earlier this year, another fake Instagram Story falsely claimed she had reviewed Ranveer Singh's film Dhurandhar: The Revenge. That screenshot also went viral before being debunked.

The latest manipulated image surfaced while many leading Bollywood stars had not publicly commented on Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike, making the fake post appear believable to some social media users.

Deepika's Previous Political Appearance

Deepika Padukone has previously found herself at the centre of political discussions.

In January 2020, she visited Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) following attacks on students and teachers. Although she stood with the protesting students, she neither addressed the gathering nor issued a public statement.

The visit generated significant political reactions during the release of her film Chhapaak.

Which Celebrities Have Supported Sonam Wangchuk?

While several Bollywood celebrities have remained silent, a number of film personalities have openly expressed support for Sonam Wangchuk.

Those who have publicly backed the activist include:

• Anurag Kashyap
• Naseeruddin Shah
• Ratna Pathak Shah
• Zeenat Aman
• Abhay Deol
• Omi Vaidya
• Singer Kaka

Anurag Kashyap shared multiple Instagram Stories calling Wangchuk a "braveheart" and criticised the continued silence surrounding the issue.

Sonam Wangchuk's Hunger Strike Continues

Sonam Wangchuk is currently on the 19th day of his hunger strike at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, where he joined protests over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak.

The protesters are demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Amid growing concerns over Wangchuk's health, a petition has reportedly been moved before the Delhi High Court seeking permission for force-feeding, citing fears that his condition could become life-threatening if the fast continues.

Key Highlights

• A viral Instagram Story attributed to Deepika Padukone is fake.
• There is no evidence the actor ever posted support for Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike.
• The screenshot has been identified as digitally manipulated.
• This is the second fake social media post falsely attributed to Deepika in 2026.
• Several celebrities, including Anurag Kashyap and Naseeruddin Shah, have publicly supported Wangchuk.

FAQs

Did Deepika Padukone support Sonam Wangchuk on Instagram?

No. The viral Instagram Story claiming Deepika Padukone supported Sonam Wangchuk has been confirmed to be fake.

Was Deepika Padukone's Instagram Story deleted?

No. There is no evidence that the alleged Story was ever posted on her verified Instagram account.

Why did the fake screenshot go viral?

The screenshot gained attention because several Bollywood celebrities had not publicly commented on Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike, making the fabricated post appear believable.

Who has publicly supported Sonam Wangchuk?

Celebrities including Anurag Kashyap, Naseeruddin Shah, Ratna Pathak Shah, Zeenat Aman, Abhay Deol, Omi Vaidya and singer Kaka have publicly expressed support.

What is Sonam Wangchuk protesting?

Sonam Wangchuk joined an indefinite hunger strike at Delhi's Jantar Mantar in support of protests over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak, with protesters demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.