Prakash Raj files complaint for sharing fake photo of him taking dip in Sangam at Maha Kumbh

Mysuru: Actor Prakash Raj has filed a complaint against Belagavi-based advocate and activist Prasanth Sambargi for allegedly sharing a fake photo of him taking a dip in the Sangam at the ongoing Maha Kumbh mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.

Raj lodged the complaint at Lakshmipuram Police Station in Mysuru on Saturday. Based on the complaint, the police filed an FIR on its basis.

Raj said, the mela, being held in Prayagraj, is holy for believers. “Sambargi has created my image, as if I am taking a holy dip at the Sangam in Prayagraj, using artificial intelligence tools. He has shared it, which has gone viral on the social media. While the people are indulged in a holy ritual, some people are politicising it,” he said.

“Already, it is being projected as if I am anti-Hindu, by spreading fake news. I do not know if Sambargi is well-known or notorious. But, people like him are spreading fake news, to increase hatred in the society. They do not belong to any dharma, they are hurting the beliefs of the people. They go on a rampage, as nobody questions them. Thus, I have booked a case against Sambargi. He has similarly misused the photos and images of other actors. Now, he should come to the Police Station, within 15 days, to respond to my complaint,” Raj said.

He said fake news is damaging the society. “People should know the truth. This should be a lesson to the youth. Nobody has the right to misuse the photos of others, without permission. It is a crime. The youth should understand the difference between fake and reality,” he said.

Replying to a question, Raj said, “I have earlier said that there is no bigger mafia than Christianity and that there are big terrorists among Muslims. But, such statements does not get attention. I have not spoken against any dharma, but, I have been projected as anti-Hindu. This is to provoke and instigate the people”.

In response to a question on Mahakumba Mela, Raj asked, what is wrong in a ‘holy dip’. “That is their belief. I do not believe in god, but I trust people. We can live without god, but not without people. Thus, I do not question the beliefs of the people. Misusing beliefs for politics cannot be justified,” he said.

“My wife and daughter visit temples. They conduct homa. That is their belief, I do not object to it. I objection is only to superstitions,” he said.