When Shahid Kapoor spoke about fake PR couples in Bollywood, netizens wonder if he was referring to Deepika Padukone-Ranveer Singh

Bollywood actor Shahid Kapoor recently stirred up a heated conversation across social media when he opened up about the idea of “fake PR couples” in a candid podcast chat. Although he didn’t name anyone directly, many netizens were quick to speculate that his remarks were targeted at Bollywood power couple Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh.

In a podcast appearance with YouTuber Raj Shamani, Shahid discussed how some celebrity relationships may not be as genuine as they seem. He emphasized the difference between real affection and calculated public displays for the camera, which, in his opinion, are easy to spot.

“If I was doing it to show off in front of four photographers, it would be apparent,” he said. Taking a veiled swipe at Bollywood’s camera-friendly couples, he added, “But agar mai vo dikhane ke liye 4 photographers khade hain aur mai dikhane ke liye kar raha hoon, toh vo dikh bhi jata hai; un cheezon mein fark dikh jata hai.” (But if I’m doing it just to show off because there are four photographers standing there, it becomes evident, and you can see the difference in such things.)

Shahid went on to share how he is often trolled online for being publicly affectionate towards his wife Mira Kapoor. From helping her with her gown to opening car doors for her, he explained how small gestures of love are often mocked. “Dekhna yaar biwi ke peeche aise pada rehta hai,” trolls would say, implying that he’s always trailing behind his wife.

However, Shahid clarified that his actions come from a place of genuine emotion, not publicity. “I’m not doing it for show. This is my life. If I want to hold my wife’s hand or help her with her dress, I don’t need photographers to validate it.”

His remarks sparked a social media storm. While many appreciated Shahid’s honesty, others accused him of indirectly targeting Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone, one of Bollywood’s most high-profile couples, often seen indulging in PDA during public events and red carpets.

Netizens react after Shahid's comment

One Reddit user commented, “Not gonna lie… I do find Ranveer Singh and Deepika’s PR-camera husband-wife thing so annoying and fake. It’s like you can literally tell it’s staged… Just stop it.”

Another chimed in, “Lmao, Shahid is forever salty about Ranveer. Move on, bruh.” Some also speculated that Shahid still harbors resentment about being overshadowed by Ranveer during their time together on Padmaavat, a film that starred Deepika and Ranveer in lead roles, while Shahid played a supporting part.

Reddit users react

Critics argued that Shahid might be projecting past insecurities. “Don’t remember him supporting DP when she faced death threats,” another comment read, referencing a time Deepika received threats for her role in Padmaavat.

Still, a section of fans supported Shahid, applauding him for bringing attention to the staged nature of some celebrity dynamics. “Finally someone said it! We need more stars to speak up against fake PR-driven antics,” a user posted.

During the podcast, Shahid also opened up about feeling “lesser” in the industry prior to the release of Kabir Singh. He revealed that while no one directly told him he was inferior, he often felt undervalued in big projects — possibly hinting at the dynamics during Padmaavat, where many felt he didn’t receive the recognition he deserved.

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Currently, Shahid is promoting his upcoming film Deva, set to release on January 31. Whether his comments were aimed at anyone specific or were just general observations remains a matter of debate. But one thing is clear — his words have sparked a larger conversation about authenticity, PR-driven relationships, and the blurred line between personal and promotional lives in Bollywood.

As Shahid said, “You can see the difference in such things.” It’s up to the audience to decide which gestures come from the heart — and which ones are meant for the headlines.