Piyush Goyal’s AI-generated 1980s portrait went viral on X, with users comparing his retro look to Bollywood actors.
His post comes amid BJP leaders’ growing use of social media trends and digital formats to connect with Gen Z and younger audiences after student protests in Delhi.
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has joined the growing 1980s AI trend on X, sharing an AI-generated portrait of himself that prompted some users to suggest he could have had a second career in Bollywood.
Goyal shared the image on Tuesday with the caption, “Vibing to the 80s trend”. The post has garnered more than 96 Lakh views, with several users reacting to his retro appearance and suggesting that he looked ready for a Hindi film debut.
The viral format is part of a wider social media trend in which users employ artificial intelligence tools to recreate their appearance in 1980s-style photographs. Goyal’s post, therefore, offered a lighter social media hook beyond his usual political and economic messaging.
AI Retro Makeover
In the AI-generated portrait, Goyal is seen in a sharp grey suit, white shirt and aviator sunglasses. The image has been given the appearance of an old 1980s studio photograph, with sepia tones, film grain and a slightly faded finish.
The trend has gained popularity online, with users turning their photographs into retro versions featuring muted colours, grainy textures and period styling.
BJP’s Digital Outreach To Gen Z
Goyal’s post also comes amid a broader effort by BJP leaders to remain visible in digital spaces frequented by younger and digitally native audiences.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has increasingly used formats and language familiar to social media users. A few days ago, while addressing the centenary celebrations of Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC), Modi referred to its alumni as the institution’s “OGs”, saying they had taken the college’s name across the world and made their mark in different fields.
Earlier, Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath have also used selfie-style videos and other social media formats to engage directly with citizens.
Such posts are increasingly being viewed as part of the BJP’s wider attempt to reach Gen Z and younger voters through the platforms, visual formats and digital language they consume regularly.
