Amoolya Gowda on celebs facing online backlash and legal trouble: Once your content is on social media, it’s public, and every post comes with responsibility

In today’s hyper-connected world, celebrities are constantly under the scanner of netizens, with every post, caption, reel and comment being dissected within minutes. From facing online backlash to even landing in legal trouble over controversial content, public figures are learning the hard way that social media is no longer just a personal space; it’s a public courtroom. Amid this climate of instant scrutiny, actress Amoolya Gowda, who is also a law graduate, says she is acutely aware of the responsibilities that come with a large digital footprint. “When you are a celebrity, your social media is not just your personal page. It becomes a public platform. Every post is seen, judged, and interpreted in different ways, and that comes with a huge responsibility,” Amoolya tells ETimes.

Why she thinks celebs can’t be casual online anymore

With controversies erupting over content shared by public figures, Amoolya believes stars can no longer afford to be careless online. “People think it’s just one post or one story, but that one post can travel far beyond what you imagine. Screenshots stay forever. Words get taken out of context. So I feel being mindful is not optional anymore, it’s necessary. You may be posting in the moment, but the internet preserves that moment permanently.” she says. Bringing in her legal awareness, Amoolya added: “Having studied law, I understand that there can be legal consequences too.

There are rules, boundaries and responsibilities that come with public communication. So I’m very conscious about not posting anything that can be misinterpreted, offensive, or legally questionable.”

"Your instagram grid is your digital identity"

The actress also reveals that she curates her Instagram profile carefully, keeping in mind how it appears to someone who is scrolling through her page for the first time. “I strongly believe your Instagram grid should be clean and positive.

When people scroll through your profile, it should feel pleasant, not cluttered or confusing. Your grid is like your digital identity. Someone opens your page, and within a few seconds, they decide what kind of person you are. That first impression matters."Amoolya adds that she treats her profile like a reflection of her personal brand. "It’s not about being perfect, it’s about being consistent and clear about what you want to show the world.

I want my page to reflect who I am as a person and as a professional, with a sense of dignity and class," the actress mentions.

Influence comes before popularity

Amoolya believes that influence should never be confused with popularity. “Anyone can go viral for the wrong reasons. But as a public figure, I think it’s important to be known for the right reasons. Fame gives you reach, but responsibility gives you respect. That difference is very important to me, " mentions the actress as she continues speaks about resisting the pressure to follow every trend blindly.“Not every trend is meant for everyone. Just because something is viral doesn’t mean I need to jump into it. I ask myself, does this align with who I am and what I stand for? If it doesn’t, I let it pass.”

Why this matters right now

At a time when several celebrities are facing backlash, and in some cases legal action, over their social media content, Amoolya Gowda’s thoughtful approach stands out. As both an actress and a law graduate, her perspective brings together visibility with responsibility, and popularity with accountability.She sums it up by saying, “Being in the spotlight is a privilege. Handling it responsibly is a choice.”