Powerlifter Keyaa Banerji has opened up about the darker side of online fame, revealing that the attention she received after winning a silver medal was accompanied by disturbing experiences on social media. Banerji, who gained significant attention for her performance in powerlifting, reportedly became the target of unwanted online attention after her medal winning achievement. While her sporting success brought praise and recognition, she also encountered incidents that made her uncomfortable and raised concerns about online safety. The athlete has spoken about allegedly facing sexual harassment and instances of people impersonating her online.

Such incidents, she said, exposed a troubling side of sudden social media visibility, where athletes can find themselves subjected to inappropriate behaviour once they begin attracting a larger audience. Impersonation can be particularly damaging for public figures, as fake accounts can be used to mislead followers, circulate false information or communicate with people while pretending to represent the athlete. Banerji’s experience also highlights the challenges faced by women athletes who gain popularity online. Along with appreciation for their performances, increased visibility can sometimes bring unwanted messages, intrusive attention and harassment. Her revelations have sparked discussions about the responsibilities of social media platforms in dealing with impersonation and abusive behaviour. They also highlight the importance of reporting suspicious accounts and taking appropriate action against individuals who misuse an athlete’s identity.

For Banerji, the attention surrounding her sporting achievement was therefore a mixed experience. Her silver medal performance helped put her in the spotlight, but the subsequent online incidents revealed the risks that can accompany sudden digital fame. The athlete’s decision to speak publicly about these experiences has also drawn attention to the need for greater awareness around online harassment, particularly for young athletes and other public figures. As social media continues to play an increasingly important role in the careers of sportspersons, Banerji’s experience serves as a reminder that recognition online can come with challenges beyond the sporting arena. Her story has encouraged conversations about digital safety, consent, privacy and the need to create safer online spaces for athletes.