“Actor Deepika Padukone shared an Instagram Story supporting Sonam Wangchuk’s hunger strike and criticizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi.”

In July 2026, a screenshot began circulating on social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit, which appeared to show an Instagram Story posted by actor Deepika Padukone. The image purportedly showed her expressing support for activist Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike and included critical remarks about the country's leadership, specifically referencing a 'failed leader.' Users claimed that Padukone had posted and subsequently deleted the story shortly after. Investigations by multiple news organizations, including Hindustan Times, India Today, and News18, confirmed that the screenshot is a digital fabrication. A review of Padukone's verified Instagram account and social media archives yielded no evidence that such a post was ever published. The viral image has been identified as a manipulated graphic designed to mimic the appearance of an Instagram Story.