An Indian model who faked her own death to raise awareness of cervical cancer has defended her actions, saying the publicity stunt was “necessary”.
Poonam Pandey, 32, shot to fame in 2011 when she promised to strip naked for the event. Indian cricket team if they win the World Cup. Since then, he has appeared in Bollywood films and reality TV shows.
A press release announcing his death was published on his Instagram page on Friday.
Her 1.3 million followers were told: “This morning was a difficult morning for us. It is with great sadness that we inform you that we lost our beloved Poonam due to cervix. cancer.
“Every living creature that comes into contact with it is greeted with pure love and kindness.”
Pandey's management team also confirmed his death to the media, while his colleagues and co-stars posted condolences on social media.
But there were also skeptics, pointing to pictures posted on social media sites four days earlier showing Pandey enjoying a nighttime boat trip in Goa.
He later said in a video posted on Saturday that he was not dead and apologized to his fans for surprising them.
“Yeah, I faked my disappearance. Extreme, I know. But suddenly we're all talking about cervical cancer, aren't we?” » Pandey said. “I am proud of what the news of my passing has been able to accomplish.”
“Unlike some other types of cancer, cervical cancer is completely preventable. The key is the HPV vaccine and early detection tests. We have the means to ensure that no one loses their life to this disease.
“Let's empower each other with critical awareness and ensure that every woman is informed about the steps to take. “
He then urged his followers to “bring #DeathToCervicalCancer.”
In a subsequent post defending his actions, he said: “Feel free to express your frustration – I understand. But these are not just empty words, rather I dedicate my whole body to serving cervical cancer.
“After you express your feelings, I invite you to visit www.poonampandeyisalive.com, my gift to you, where we can unite to fight cervical cancer.”
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