Poonam Panday - a renowned Bollywood star - is facing criticism after 'faking her own death'.
On Friday (February 2), news publications like The Independent, Daily Mail, and the New York Post reported that Panday had passed away at the age of 32 following a battle with cervical cancer.
The news came after an announcement was posted to Panday's official Instagram account, informing her 1.3 million followers that the Bollywood star and model had died.
"This morning is a tough one for us. Deeply saddened to inform you that we have lost our beloved Poonam to cervical cancer," a statement shared to her Instagram page read. "Every living form that ever came in contact with her was met with pure love and kindness. In this time of grief, we would request for privacy while we remember her fondly for all that we shared."
However, on Saturday morning (February 3), Pandey made a shocking return to her Instagram page, revealing that she had staged her death announcement in order to raise awareness of cervical cancer and screenings.
Sharing several posts within a few hours of each other, Pandey wrote: "I feel compelled to share something significant with you all - I am here, alive. Cervical Cancer didn’t claim me, but tragically, it has claimed the lives of thousands of women who stemmed from a lack of knowledge on how to tackle this disease.
"Unlike some other cancers, Cervical Cancer is entirely preventable.
"The key lies in the HPV vaccine and early detection tests. We have the means to ensure no one loses their life to this disease. Let’s empower one another with critical awareness and ensure every woman is informed about the steps to take. Visit the link in the bio to delve deeper into what can be done."
She concluded the post by writing: "Together, let’s strive to put an end to the devastating impact of the disease and bring."
However, despite the star's apparent best intentions of raising awareness of the killer disease, many of the comments were from furious fans labeling the whole thing a "publicity stunt" - with some even calling for legal action to be taken.
"Am happy she is alive but [please] arrest her for this drama and publicity stunt," one person wrote.
A second added: "Next time people won't take you seriously, you just destroyed your entire credibility."
"Worst PR Stunt, you could have done a better way, than highlighting such a sensitive topic for so many cancer patients. Highly not appreciated," a third wrote.
"What an absolute joke," another added, "Get a life and stop begging for attention."
Hauterrfly, a women's media group, later shared a joint post with the Bollywood star, writing: "Poonam Pandey’s simulated ‘departure’ sent shockwaves, awakening conversations about cervical cancer awareness. This groundbreaking move has ignited discussions, encouraging us all to prioritize screenings, knowledge, and support for those battling this silent adversary.
"Let’s transform this awareness into action for a healthier tomorrow!"
However, Hauterrfly's post was also flooded with criticism, with more irate Instagram users taking to the comments section.
"Distasteful. Ridiculous. Cheap. There are much better ways to spread awareness. And @hauterrfly supporting this cheap marketing gimmick wasn’t expected at all. You’ve stooped to a very low level with this," one person wrote.
"What a disgraceful act, apathetic, you wanted attention on the stake of people's emotions, I feel sorry for everyone who is following you," another added.
Pandey has experienced a career marked by both highlights and controversies.
Renowned for her bold and glamorous image, she gained recognition through her participation in the reality TV show Khatron Ke Khiladi and her appearances in various Hindi and regional films, including Nasha and Malini & Co.
However, this is not the first time Pandey has faced public backlash. Notably, she has previously made headlines for her promise to strip for the Indian cricket team if they emerged victorious in a major tournament, resulting in her arrest and legal entanglements.
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