Anil Kapoor included in TIME's 100 most influential people in AI list. Netizens ask WHY? Here’s the answer

Veteran Bollywood actor Anil Kapoor has been included in TIME’s list of ‘100 Most Influential People In Artificial Intelligence’. The actor’s name has been included in the ‘Shapers’ category. TIME’s recent cover has left the Indian fans wondering why the actor has been included in the list.

As per TIME, Anil Kapoor's inclusion is because of his role in safeguarding celebrity rights in the digital age. Last year, the Delhi High Court issued a landmark ruling in his favor in unauthorized AI use of his likeness.

The actor, who starred in the Oscar-winning movie Slumdog Millionaire and many Bollywood films, took up the case after a large number of distorted videos, gifs, and emojis bearing his likeness began circulating online. He also sought protection over the use of his iconic phrase, “jhakaas,” – first uttered in the 1985 film, Yudh.

The court ruled in his favor by restraining the 16 defendants from using, in any manner, “Anil Kapoor’s name, likeness, image, voice or any other aspect of his persona to create any merchandise, ringtones … either for monetary gain or otherwise.”

Anil Kapoor’s victory has also paved the way for others to seek protection over their personality rights.