Are Paparazzi forgetting humanity in the race for viral content? Salman Khan, Dharmendra incidents spark debate

Celebrities live in the public eye, but does that mean they deserve to lose every bit of personal space? That question has once again sparked debate after a recent incident involving Salman Khan. The actor reportedly lost his cool at paparazzi while visiting a hospital for medical treatment. While stars are used to cameras following them everywhere, moments linked to health, grief, or emotional distress are deeply personal. Yet today, in the race for views, likes, and viral clips, many paparazzi seem to be forgetting where journalism ends and intrusion begins.

When “Coverage” Turns Into Harassment

The issue becomes even more disturbing when health-related situations are treated like entertainment. Late Veteran actor Dharmendra faced a similar invasion of privacy earlier this year. A video showing him under medical care at Breach Candy Hospital leaked online, shocking fans and industry members alike. Reports suggested that a hospital staff member involved in filming the video was later arrested. Around the same time, false rumors about Dharmendra’s death began circulating online, causing unnecessary panic and emotional distress for the family. His wife Hema Malini and daughter Esha Deol publicly slammed the insensitive reports, calling them “disrespectful” and “unforgivable.”

Families Are Speaking Out Loudly

It’s not just celebrities, but also their families, who are now openly criticizing paparazzi culture. Actor Sunny Deol reportedly lost his temper when photographers crowded outside their residence during Dharmendra’s discharge from the hospital. Later, during a deeply personal asthi visarjan ceremony in Haridwar, an aggressive paparazzo allegedly attempted to film the family ritual, prompting Sunny to react strongly. These moments raise a serious concern has the race for exclusive content completely erased the understanding of grief, privacy, and emotional sensitivity? Even filmmaker Karan Johar and veteran star Amitabh Bachchan have criticized the growing lack of ethics in entertainment journalism.

Sara Tendulkar’s Sharp Response Reflects Public Frustration

Recently, Sara Tendulkar also strongly called out a paparazzi page after it posted an airport video with an inappropriate caption mocking her appearance. The caption not only body-shamed her but also unnecessarily dragged her sister-in-law into the post. Sara reshared the clip on Instagram and wrote, “You are disgusting. This is not journalism. Leave. Us. Alone.” Her response resonated with many people online who believe that paparazzi pages are increasingly crossing ethical boundaries just to gain attention on social media.

Journalism or Just Viral Content?

The culture of the 'paparazzi' began just to capture the candid moments and public appearances. However, the fine line between journalism and intrusion has faded nowadys. Even if celebs are more than under the limelight, respecting their privacy is one of the most important factor as a paparazzi. 

Be it an emotional moment of grief or having going through tough times, it should be kept in mind that even celebrities are human and they need their time. 

What Paparazzi Need to Remember

Celebrity journalism is not wrong. In fact, paparazzi culture has become a huge part of entertainment media today. Fans enjoy seeing airport looks, public appearances, and event coverage. But the problem begins when the chase for viral content becomes more important than basic humanity. Paparazzi need to remember that celebrities are not “content machines.” They are people dealing with illnesses, family problems, grief, and emotional struggles just like everyone else. Sensitive situations such as hospital visits, funerals, religious rituals, or private family moments should be treated with dignity and restraint.

Responsible journalism should focus on informing, not humiliating or provoking reactions for clicks. Filmmakers like Karan Johar and superstar Amitabh Bachchan have also spoken about the lack of ethics in modern paparazzi culture. Perhaps the industry needs to ask itself an important question is a viral video really worth hurting someone’s emotions and privacy? Because at the end of the day, respect should never become the price of fame.