Misleading Footage Goes Viral

New Delhi, October 17, 2025: A distressing video that has been widely circulated across social media platforms was claimed to show a street vendor preparing the popular Indian dish, pav bhaji, in grossly unhygienic conditions. In the footage, the vendor was allegedly seen using his feet to mash vegetables on the cooking plate, or tawa, and engaging in other unsanitary practices, such as sneezing onto the food before serving it.

Outrage and shock were immediately sparked among viewers, and the authenticity of street food vendors was questioned widely across various online forums. The clip quickly was shared millions of times, leading to significant public health concerns being expressed.

Artificial Intelligence Confirmed as Source

Upon investigation, the seemingly disturbing footage was confirmed to be entirely fabricated. The viral video was identified as an Artificial Intelligence (AI) generation, and not a documentation of a real event. Fact-checking processes were initiated by various media and verification bodies, and definitive evidence was uncovered to expose the deceptive nature of the content.

A closer inspection of the visuals revealed several tell-tale inconsistencies and unnatural movements, which are commonly found in AI-generated videos. For instance, objects like the handle of the cooking spoon were observed changing shape or size unexpectedly, and the actions of the person were judged to be highly unrealistic.

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The Role of AI Detection Tools

Advanced AI detection tools were employed during the verification process, and a high probability score was returned, confirming that the video was manufactured by AI. In some versions of the clip, a subtle watermark of a known AI-based video generation tool was even found.

Further research was conducted into the video’s origin, and the original source was traced back to a social media account known for publishing AI-created content that maliciously portrays street food vendors in unhygienic settings. It has been noted that such videos are often produced to attract viral attention through shock value.

Broader Implications for Digital Content

The dissemination of this fake content has highlighted the growing challenge of distinguishing between genuine footage and AI-generated deception. The power of deepfake technology has been demonstrated to create highly convincing but entirely false narratives, which can be used to unfairly damage reputations or spread misinformation.

The swift action to debunk the video was considered essential to prevent undue harm to legitimate street food vendors and to inform the public about the need for caution before sharing sensationalised content. Viewers are continually urged to be critically aware of the source and nature of highly viral videos.