‘AI is a tool, can’t replace humans,’ says Bollywood veteran Dalip Tahil at OTV Foresight 2025

Bollywood veteran Dalip Tahil, known for his roles in ‘Baazigar’ and ‘Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak’, addressed the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) in film-making at the OTV Foresight 2025 event in Bhubaneswar on Wednesday.

Actor Dalip Tahil emphasized that while AI is a powerful tool, it cannot replicate human emotions, making it unlikely to replace actors or artists. He pointed out that AI has already transformed industries, much like digital cameras, sound recording, and computer graphics once did.

However, he stressed that while these technologies enhanced filmmaking, they can never replace human creativity. “My job is safe,” he said with confidence, explaining that acting relies on emotions, which AI cannot authentically replicate.

“AI is a contradiction. We create it, but often don’t understand where to use it,” he remarked. “As far as I can see, AI will not be able to replicate the depth and nuances of human emotions, so in the longer run, at least my job is safe,” he remarked on a lighter note.

ALSO READ: OTV Foresight 2025: ‘PM Modi is the messenger', Shehzad Poonawalla shares how BJP combats fake news

Alarmingly, Tahil, however, warned that it could fall into the hands of large corporations focused solely on profit, leading to economic and social disruption. 

Discussing the larger impact of AI, the ‘Mission Mangal’ actor expressed concerns about job losses across various sectors. Comparing the current lack of AI regulation to the 2008 financial crash, he urged for self-regulation before AI caused widespread economic instability.

“Millions could become redundant. The question is, how will we rehabilitate them?” Tahil asked. While being sceptical of AI in the arts, Tahil acknowledged its potential in industries like pharmaceuticals, where it could aid research and innovation.

ALSO READ: OTV Foresight 2025: Disinformation and fake news are biggest threats to India, says INC Spokesperson Mumtaz Ahmed Patel

Despite AI’s rapid progress, Tahil believes ‘we are still a long way from creating machines that can truly think and feel like humans. “The final stage, where AI replicates human emotions, may never be achieved,” he concluded, reinforcing the belief that human creativity remains irreplaceable.