In 2025, social media transformed into a canvas of alternate realities, with timelines showcasing anime-inspired visuals, vintage portraits, action figures, and hyper-realistic 3D avatars. Generative AI evolved from a novelty to a cultural phenomenon, reshaping online self-presentation. A standout trend was the Ghibli-style transformation of real-life photos into illustrations, evoking nostalgia and escapism. This trend gained momentum with the accessibility of AI tools, allowing users to create cinematic visuals effortlessly. In India, it resonated deeply, turning everyday scenes into magical frames.
Conversely, the AI action figure trend portrayed individuals as collectible dolls, sparking conversations about identity and self-expression. This trend gained traction when public figures shared their AI-generated versions, blending nostalgia with tech novelty.
The vintage saree trend transported users back to the 1960s and 70s, with AI-generated retro portraits evoking family memories. This trend highlighted cultural heritage and the elegance of classic Indian cinema.
Hyper-realistic 3D figurines became a playful phenomenon, transforming portraits into digital avatars. This trend raised discussions about digital identity and personal avatars.
A deeply emotional trend involved using AI to insert deceased relatives into photos, offering comfort and closure. In India, this resonated due to strong family ties, sparking debates about the ethics of digital resurrection. In 2025, generative AI not only reshaped creativity but also influenced how people processed absence and memory.
