This image does the rounds every year during Diwali. It is hoax image of a satellite picture ‘released’ by NASA which captures India on the night of Diwali.
The hoax has been doing the rounds on the internet since 2002, and has been called out for what it is by many. However, the number of people who still fall for it is amazing. Those new to the internet or social media are the most vulnerable, who take whatever they see on the internet for gospel truth.
However, this diwali certain celebrities also fell for the repetitive hoax image. Unsuspecting Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag found himself in the same league as veteran actor Rishi Kapoor, when it came to falling for the Diwali satellite image hoax.
Sehwag tweeted:
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) November 10, 2015
Many followers of the great batsman pointed out to him that it was a hoax, but Sehwag has not yet deleted it. Probably he was busy with All Stars Cricket!
A day after that, veteran actor Rishi Kapoor tweeted the same image with a positive note.
Last night on Diwali.So very proud seeing an illuminated India.Now want to see a peaceful loving nation! Jai Hind🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/EsoKWcg6pV
— rishi kapoor (@chintskap) November 12, 2015
As soon as his followers pointed out to him that the image was a hoax, Kapoor, who is a regular on Twitter issued a clarification.
It could be fake,photo shopped,someone's imagination whatsoever. But I would like to believe and be positive that it's true.I am an optimist
— rishi kapoor (@chintskap) November 12, 2015
We like Rishi ji’s positivity!