In India, a growing trend is emerging where artificial intelligence (AI) is used to create deepfake videos featuring deceased loved ones during significant family events, such as weddings. A compelling example is Jaideep Sharma’s wedding in Ajmer, where an AI-generated video showcased his late father blessing the newlyweds, stirring strong emotions among guests. Creators like Akhil Vinayak and Divyendra Singh Jadoun leverage AI tools like OpenAI’s Sora and Stable Diffusion to meet cultural needs, especially in ceremonies demanding physical presence. While these deepfakes offer emotional comfort and help bridge the gap of absence, concerns arise regarding potential psychological implications. Critics stress the need for managing expectations, as these technology-driven representations might promote an “artificial reality.” Nonetheless, the popularity of AI deepfakes illustrates a unique intersection of technology and tradition, redefining how families cope with loss and engage in social rituals in contemporary Indian culture.
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