Payal Dhare, popularly known as Payal Gaming, is a prominent Indian gaming YouTuber and streamer with over 4.5 million YouTube subscribers. She specializes in games like BGMI, GTA V, and PUBG, and is affiliated with S8UL Esports. She gained extra fame earlier in 2025 as the “viral girl in the stands” during the ICC Champions Trophy matches in Dubai.
The controversy revolves around an explicit video falsely claimed to feature her, which spread rapidly online. Multiple sources, including fans and fact-checks, confirm it is a deepfake (AI-generated) or unrelated clip misused to defame her. No authentic video exists, and links often lead to scams or phishing sites.
Timeline of Events
- December 16, 2025:
An explicit clip begins circulating on platforms like X (Twitter), Telegram, Instagram, and WhatsApp. Users falsely tag it as “Payal Gaming Dubai MMS” or a “leaked private video,” exploiting her recent Dubai-related fame from the Champions Trophy. Screenshots and short snippets go viral, with sensational titles like “19-minute viral video” or “1-minute 20-second leak.” Many links are clickbait leading to spam or malware. - December 16–17, 2025 (Immediate Backlash):
Payal’s fans quickly defend her, calling the video a deepfake. Posts highlight inconsistencies (e.g., facial features, body differences) and urge others not to share unverified content. Comments like “It’s AI-generated for views” and “Don’t ruin her image” trend. The gaming community mobilizes, reporting links and warning about AI misuse. - December 17, 2025:
The controversy peaks, trending heavily online. Fact-check articles from outlets like MyKhel, Economic Times, and News18 label it false and misleading, confirming no verified connection to Payal. Some compare it to recent similar hoaxes involving other creators (e.g., Sweet Zannat’s denied “19-minute video”). - December 17, 2025 (Evening):
Payal Dhare breaks her silence with an official statement on Instagram (shared as a photo note). She declares:
“The individual in the video is not me… This content has no connection to my life, my choices, or my identity.”
She describes the situation as “deeply hurtful and dehumanizing,” highlights the pain of rapid online misrepresentation, and urges people/media to stop sharing or speculating. She mentions legal action against misuse of her name/image and thanks supporters.
- December 18–19, 2025 (Ongoing):
Support continues from fans, fellow creators, and celebrities. Discussions focus on AI deepfake dangers, online harassment of women creators, and calls for platform accountability. Some rumored associates (e.g., boyfriend Parv Singh) are mentioned in speculation, but no confirmed response from them. The incident raises broader concerns about digital safety in India’s creator economy.
This is a clear case of targeted misinformation and deepfake abuse, similar to rising trends in 2025 affecting public figures. Payal has emphasized the real-life impact on individuals and families. Reliable sources unanimously support her denial and label the claims baseless. Avoid engaging with suspicious links to prevent spreading harm or falling for scams.