Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas Harnesses ChatGPT's Ghibli Magic for Bhagavad Gita Art

Introduction to Ghiblify and Its Origins

Ghiblify is an imaginative and technological advancement in art, where artificial intelligence combines the iconic aesthetic of Studio Ghibli with a wide array of images, creating a unique blend of cultural homage and technological innovation. This concept has its roots in the growing intersection of AI and traditional art forms, allowing creators and enthusiasts to explore new artistic avenues. The trend was brought into the spotlight by Aravind Srinivas, the CEO of Perplexity AI, who utilized this feature of ChatGPT to recreate a pivotal scene from the Bhagavad Gita, depicting Arjuna and Lord Krishna in an epic cinematic setting reminiscent of Ghibli's enchanting style. This innovation not only celebrates the art of storytelling but also sparks a conversation around the ethical dimensions of AI in art creation.

The origins of Ghiblify are deeply intertwined with the current technological advancements in image generation, particularly those powered by AI models like OpenAI's ChatGPT. By offering the ability to transform ordinary images into Ghibli-like masterpieces, Ghiblify taps into the nostalgia and appreciation for Studio Ghibli's much-loved animation style. Studio Ghibli is celebrated worldwide for its breathtaking visuals and profound storytelling, as seen in classics like 'Spirited Away' and 'My Neighbor Totoro.' Hence, the allure of having personal images reimagined in such a style is irresistible to many, as demonstrated by the growing popularity of the Ghiblify feature among ChatGPT's Plus and Pro users.

Aravind Srinivas and the Bhagavad Gita Scene

Aravind Srinivas, CEO of Perplexity AI, has embraced the innovative trend of blending technology with art by utilizing ChatGPT’s capabilities to create a Ghibli-style rendering of a classic scene from the Bhagavad Gita. This modern artistic venture highlights the intersection of ancient spiritual narratives with contemporary digital artistry. Through this initiative, Srinivas brilliantly captures the momentous interaction between Arjuna and Lord Krishna during the epic dialogue on the battlefield, bringing Chapter 11, Verse 32 of the Bhagavad Gita to life in a new visual context. It exemplifies how AI tools like Ghiblify can transform textual heritage into evocative visual experiences, offering a fresh perspective on traditional tales .

The initiative by Aravind Srinivas does not only showcase the artistic potential of AI but also ignites discussions on the cultural and ethical implications of using such technology. The scene of Arjuna, poised with Krishna who reveals his universal form, is iconic in Hindu scripture, and rendering it in the Ghibli style introduces a dialogue on cultural preservation through digital means. The "Ghiblify" trend, particularly, poses questions about the balance between creative expression and respect for traditional art forms. Srinivas’s project with the Bhagavad Gita illustrates how technology can be harnessed to enhance and reimagine classical art within the digital domain, providing pathways to engage newer audiences with ancient narratives .

The Art of Studio Ghibli and Its Influence

Studio Ghibli has long been celebrated for its deeply evocative and imaginative storytelling, encapsulated in iconic films such as 'Spirited Away,' 'My Neighbor Totoro,' and 'Princess Mononoke.' These films, crafted with meticulous attention to detail, have made Studio Ghibli a legendary name in the animation industry, influencing countless artists and animators globally. Their unique style, characterized by lush backgrounds, intricate character designs, and heartfelt narratives, captures the essence of Japanese culture and art. This has not only inspired a diverse array of fan art and adaptations but has also seeped into mainstream media, influencing both Eastern and Western animation studios. Through this artistic prowess, Studio Ghibli has established a harmonious blend of visual beauty and emotional depth, creating timeless works that transcend cultural boundaries.

In recent times, the advent of AI technologies has opened new doors for artistic expression, allowing enthusiasts to reimagine traditional forms of art in innovative ways. A notable trend is "Ghiblify," where AI-generated images mimic the distinct visual aesthetic of Studio Ghibli. This technological progression has sparked a myriad of discussions on the ethical use of AI in art creation, especially around copyright and the preservation of artistic integrity. Aravind Srinivas, CEO of Perplexity AI, demonstrated this by using ChatGPT to craft a Ghibli-style image depicting a scene from the Bhagavad Gita, showcasing how AI can contribute to cultural storytelling through the lens of modern technology.

However, this fusion of AI and art has brought about significant debate, especially regarding the implications for original creators like Studio Ghibli's co-founder Hayao Miyazaki, who has expressed concern over AI-generated animations. Miyazaki regards such technology as an "insult to life," arguing that it undermines the value of human creativity and the painstaking efforts of artists who dedicate their lives to mastering their craft. This perspective resonates with many who champion the authenticity of traditional art and fear the potential reduction in demand for human illustrators due to technologies like "Ghiblify." Nevertheless, others argue that AI democratizes artistic creation, providing tools to those who may lack traditional skills yet possess a strong creative vision.

Cultural appropriation is another critical aspect of the discourse surrounding AI-generated art styled after Studio Ghibli. The use of elements from specific cultural heritages in AI creations raises questions about the ethical boundaries of AI utility in art. While AI allows for creative reinterpretations, it also risks trivializing deeply rooted cultural symbols by rendering them through algorithms without context or understanding. As seen in the Bhagavad Gita illustration, AI's capability to handle cultural narratives must be approached with careful consideration to avoid cultural insensitivity. Such uses have prompted ongoing discussions about intellectual property and cultural rights in the age of artificial intelligence-driven creativity.

Despite these challenges, the influence of Studio Ghibli remains profound, as it continually inspires both the format and substance of contemporary visual storytelling. The studio's ability to convey complex themes and immerse viewers in fantastical worlds has not only shaped the animation landscape but also paved the way for dialogues about the future of art in an era where technology and tradition intersect. As AI continues to evolve, it will be vital to address the ethical dimensions of its use in art, ensuring that the innovations respect and pay homage to the cultural legacies they draw from, much like how Studio Ghibli has consistently celebrated the richness of its cultural origins in its work.

How Ghiblify Transformations Work

In the ever-evolving intersection of technology and creativity, "Ghiblify" stands out as a unique transformation process. This feature, provided by OpenAI's ChatGPT, allows users to apply the distinctive visual style of Studio Ghibli to their own images. Much like Miyazaki's iconic films such as 'Spirited Away' and 'My Neighbor Totoro' [1](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/etimes/trending/perplexity-ceo-aravind-srinivas-uses-chatgpts-ghibli-art-to-create-iconic-scene-from-bhagavad-gita/articleshow/119641945.cms), Ghiblify captures the enchanting, hand-drawn aesthetic that fans adore. By simply instructing ChatGPT to convert a photo, users can experience their images in a new artistic form, echoing the meticulous detail and whimsical charm that characterizes Ghibli's animations.

One of the most notable uses of Ghiblify was demonstrated by Perplexity AI CEO Aravind Srinivas, who utilized this feature to recreate a pivotal scene from the Bhagavad Gita. This iconic representation—featuring Arjuna and Krishna on the battlefield—was effectively transformed into a Ghibli-style rendering, capturing the spiritual gravity of Chapter 11, Verse 32 of the text. This verse, famously depicting Krishna's universal form, was given a new visual life, blending cultural heritage with contemporary AI capabilities [1](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/etimes/trending/perplexity-ceo-aravind-srinivas-uses-chatgpts-ghibli-art-to-create-iconic-scene-from-bhagavad-gita/articleshow/119641945.cms).

The introduction of Ghiblify raises important discussions around artistic integrity and copyright. With Studio Ghibli co-founder Hayao Miyazaki expressing concerns, calling AI-generated art an "insult to life" [5](https://apnews.com/article/studio-ghibli-chatgpt-images-hayao-miyazaki-openai-0f4cb487ec3042dd5b43ad47879b91f4), this technology challenges traditional notions of creativity. While AI opens doors for democratizing art and offering new means of expression, it also underscores the need for careful regulation, particularly regarding the replication of specific art styles without consent or appropriate credit [8](https://m.economictimes.com/news/new-updates/chatgpts-studio-ghibli-images-go-viral-what-is-ghibli-art-what-prompts-can-you-use-and-how-is-it-different-from-dall-e/articleshow/119571661.cms).

Despite these challenges, the social implications of Ghiblify cannot be overlooked. This feature enables users to engage with art in an unprecedented way, encouraging participation in what was once an exclusive realm of highly skilled animators. Through platforms like X and Instagram, individuals can share their Ghibli-fied images, fostering creativity and community [1](https://www.cnn.com/2025/03/27/style/chatgpt-studio-ghibli-ai-images-intl-hnk/index.html). This blend of technology and artistry also sparks important conversations about the future of creative industries and the role AI will play in art creation and consumption.

As OpenAI navigates these new waters, it faces the complex task of balancing technology advancement with ethical considerations. The company's stance against replicating living artists' styles while embracing broader studio aesthetics reflects an effort to respect both innovation and intellectual property [9](https://www.businessinsider.com/openai-studio-ghibli-style-images-violate-copyright-or-not-2025-3). Moving forward, it will be crucial for policymakers to adapt to these technological changes, ensuring that creativity driven by AI complements rather than competes with human artistry.

Expert Opinions on AI-Generated Art

The unveiling of the 'Ghiblify' trend, which utilizes AI tools like ChatGPT to recreate images in the Studio Ghibli style, has set off a swirl of discussions about the implications of AI-generated art in the creative world. Among the critical voices is that of Hayao Miyazaki, the legendary co-founder of Studio Ghibli, who has vocally criticized AI-based animation, declaring it an "insult to life". This sentiment underscores a broader concern about the artistic and ethical ramifications of generating art that mimics established styles without the artists' consent or involvement ().

Public Reactions: Enthusiasm and Concerns

The "Ghiblify" trend has sparked a diverse range of public reactions, with many embracing the novelty and artistic potential it offers. Enthusiasts of the feature are delighted by its ability to transform mundane images into imaginative Ghibli-style artworks. This enthusiasm is evident across social media platforms, where users eagerly share their Ghibli-fied creations, ranging from cherished personal memories to humorous memes and iconic film scenes. Such transformations allow individuals to explore and express creativity in new ways, reaching broader audiences through visually captivating art [1](https://www.cnn.com/2025/03/27/style/chatgpt-studio-ghibli-ai-images-intl-hnk/index.html). The tool's accessibility to ChatGPT Plus and Pro users enhances this outreach, as seen in the vibrant online community that has emerged around sharing these art pieces [4](https://m.economictimes.com/news/new-updates/chatgpts-studio-ghibli-images-go-viral-what-is-ghibli-art-what-prompts-can-you-use-and-how-is-it-different-from-dall-e/articleshow/119571661.cms).

Despite the growing enthusiasm, the "Ghiblify" feature has not been without its critics. Concerns have predominantly revolved around ethical and legal implications. Studio Ghibli's co-founder, Hayao Miyazaki, has explicitly criticized AI-generated art, labeling it as detrimental to the essence of life and artistic integrity. His disapproval reflects deeper ethical questions about replicating an artist’s unique style without consent, which some argue could undermine the original creators’ intentions and contributions [5](https://mashable.com/article/studio-ghibli-ai-memes-openai-chatgpt). Moreover, issues of copyright infringement are notable, as creating Ghibli-style art without explicit permission from the studio raises significant legal questions, particularly regarding the ownership and distribution of such works [9](https://www.businessinsider.com/openai-studio-ghibli-style-images-violate-copyright-or-not-2025-3).

Adding to the complexity of the concerns are inconsistencies within OpenAI's policies regarding copyright protections. Critics point out that while the company restricts the generation of images mimicking individual artists, its policies are less clear about broader studio styles like Ghibli's. This ambiguity has fueled debates about what constitutes fair use and whether a balance can be struck between creative freedom and the protection of artistic copyrights [9](https://www.businessinsider.com/openai-studio-ghibli-style-images-violate-copyright-or-not-2025-3). The selective accessibility of Ghiblify to premium users also accentuates these debates, challenging the consistency and fairness of OpenAI’s policy framework [9](https://www.businessinsider.com/openai-studio-ghibli-style-images-violate-copyright-or-not-2025-3).

OpenAI's Stance on Copyright and Artist Styles

OpenAI's stance on copyright and the replication of artist styles in the context of AI art generation remains a complex and evolving topic that touches upon ethical, legal, and creative dimensions. As AI becomes increasingly capable of mimicking established artistic styles, including those of world-renowned studios like Studio Ghibli, OpenAI faces the challenge of balancing innovation with respect for original creators. "Ghiblify," the trend of using ChatGPT to produce Ghibli-style images, highlights both the allure and controversies of AI-generated art [1](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/etimes/trending/perplexity-ceo-aravind-srinivas-uses-chatgpts-ghibli-art-to-create-iconic-scene-from-bhagavad-gita/articleshow/119641945.cms). This phenomenon illustrates the intersection of technology and creativity, pushing the boundaries of what AI can contribute to artistic endeavors.

Within the broader realm of AI and artistic creation, OpenAI's commitment to ethical boundaries is reflected in its restrictions on replicating the styles of living artists. This policy attempts to safeguard artist revenues and ensure that AI does not infringe upon individual artistic legacies. Nevertheless, the line between individual and studio styles continues to spur debate, as seen in the controversy surrounding the generation of images in the Studio Ghibli style without explicit consent [9](https://www.businessinsider.com/openai-studio-ghibli-style-images-violate-copyright-or-not-2025-3). Despite these challenges, OpenAI emphasizes the potential for AI to democratize art creation, providing new tools for artists and enthusiasts alike to explore and expand their creative expressions.

The ethical dilemma of using AI to mimic well-known styles without authorization sparks vital discussions on copyright laws and the protection of artistic integrity. Hayao Miyazaki’s strong opposition to AI-generated animation—deemed an "insult to life"—underscores this tension, reflecting wider industry concerns about preserving human-centric creative processes [5](https://apnews.com/article/studio-ghibli-chatgpt-images-hayao-miyazaki-openai-0f4cb487ec3042dd5b43ad47879b91f4). As the conversation progresses, OpenAI faces the ongoing task of addressing these valid concerns while harnessing AI's transformative potential to inspire and innovate without overshadowing the invaluable contributions of human artists.

Economic Implications of AI in Art Creation

AI's integration into the art industry, especially in the realm of creating Ghibli-style art through tools like ChatGPT, presents profound economic implications. On the one hand, AI's ability to automate and generate art quickly offers significant opportunities for revenue and market expansion for companies like OpenAI. By monetizing these features through subscription models, such as ChatGPT Plus and Pro, OpenAI taps into a growing consumer base enchanted by the novelty of 'Ghiblify' options [1](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/etimes/trending/perplexity-ceo-aravind-srinivas-uses-chatgpts-ghibli-art-to-create-iconic-scene-from-bhagavad-gita/articleshow/119641945.cms).

However, while businesses may see economic gains, individual artists and illustrators could face economic challenges. The capability of AI to replicate artistic styles, such as that of Studio Ghibli, has the potential to disrupt traditional art markets. Artists may experience a decrease in demand for custom, hand-crafted Ghibli-style illustrations as consumers might prefer the AI alternative for its speed and potentially lower costs. This could lead to a significant impact on the employment and income of artists specializing in such styles [1](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/etimes/trending/perplexity-ceo-aravind-srinivas-uses-chatgpts-ghibli-art-to-create-iconic-scene-from-bhagavad-gita/articleshow/119641945.cms).

As AI continues to advance, the economic landscape for art creation might evolve to balance between technology-driven efficiency and traditional artistry. Legal frameworks may need to adapt to protect human artists and ensure fair compensation, while also exploring opportunities for collaboration between AI technologies and human creativity to drive innovation in art [1](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/etimes/trending/perplexity-ceo-aravind-srinivas-uses-chatgpts-ghibli-art-to-create-iconic-scene-from-bhagavad-gita/articleshow/119641945.cms).

The economic implications of AI in art creation extend beyond the art world into broader technological and economic domains, potentially influencing sectors such as telecommunications, digital marketing, and entertainment. As AI tools are increasingly adopted across industries, their transformative power could redefine concepts of intellectual property and innovation, underscoring the importance of adaptive economic strategies and policies [1](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/etimes/trending/perplexity-ceo-aravind-srinivas-uses-chatgpts-ghibli-art-to-create-iconic-scene-from-bhagavad-gita/articleshow/119641945.cms).

Social and Ethical Considerations

The advent of AI technologies such as the Ghiblify feature, which transforms images into Studio Ghibli-style art, opens a myriad of social and ethical considerations. Central to this discourse is the intersection of technology, creativity, and cultural heritage. As highlighted in a recent article, Perplexity AI's CEO Aravind Srinivas utilized Ghiblify to recreate a significant scene from the Bhagavad Gita, illustrating the powerful blend of modern AI capabilities with traditional cultural artifacts ().

One major ethical question surrounds the replication of art styles using AI without explicit permission from the original creators. This issue is poignantly illustrated by Studio Ghibli co-founder Hayao Miyazaki's objection, labeling AI-generated art as an insult to life. Miyazaki’s stance underscores concerns about violating artistic rights and devaluing the human touch in creative works (). These ethical dilemmas extend to questions of authorship and originality, challenging existing notions of what constitutes art and who can claim creation rights over AI-generated works.

Moreover, the social implications of AI art generation are vast. While some argue that Ghiblify and similar tools democratize art by making it accessible to those without traditional artistic skills, others contend that it diminishes the value of genuine human creativity. This technology reshapes how society views creativity, possibly reducing the perceived need for human artistic contribution and altering the landscape of the art community itself ().

Cultural heritage poses another layer of complexity. The use of AI to create art from cultural texts like the Bhagavad Gita raises important discussions about cultural appropriation and the need for responsible handling of culturally significant works (). Balancing respect for cultural artifacts with the innovative uses of technology presents a formidable challenge, requiring thoughtful consideration and possible regulatory measures to protect cultural integrity against the backdrop of technological advancement.

In summary, while AI-generated art presents new opportunities for creativity and expression, it also necessitates careful deliberation on social and ethical fronts. Bridging the gap between technological innovation and ethical responsibility will be crucial as society navigates the evolving landscape of AI and art. This dialogue will require input not only from artists and technologists but also from cultural experts and ethicists to ensure a balanced and respectful integration of AI into the world of art.

Political Impact: Cultural Policy and Intellectual Property

In the realm of cultural policy and intellectual property, AI's role in generating art, as evidenced by the 'Ghiblify' feature, raises pressing political concerns. Governments worldwide are confronted with the task of updating existing copyright laws to address the challenges posed by AI-generated content, which may include transforming images into distinct styles like Studio Ghibli without explicit consent [1](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/etimes/trending/perplexity-ceo-aravind-srinivas-uses-chatgpts-ghibli-art-to-create-iconic-scene-from-bhagavad-gita/articleshow/119641945.cms). The ambiguity surrounding the ownership of AI-created art necessitates a reevaluation of current intellectual property frameworks, potentially leading to international collaborations to ensure fair use and attribution.

The political dimension of AI-powered tools like Ghiblify also encompasses the debate on cultural appropriation. With AI able to create art from significant cultural texts, such as the Bhagavad Gita, questions emerge on how AI respects cultural heritage and intellectual property, especially when used without the direct involvement or consent of cultural custodians [1](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/etimes/trending/perplexity-ceo-aravind-srinivas-uses-chatgpts-ghibli-art-to-create-iconic-scene-from-bhagavad-gita/articleshow/119641945.cms). This raises important issues regarding how cultural traditions are preserved or altered in the digital age, requiring policymakers to strike a delicate balance between innovation and respect for cultural legacies.

Moreover, the ease with which AI can replicate well-known art styles could influence cultural policy by affecting how societies value original versus AI-generated works. There's a political risk in allowing AI-generated art to dominate cultural narratives, as this could potentially dilute traditional art forms and diminish the role of human creativity [1](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/etimes/trending/perplexity-ceo-aravind-srinivas-uses-chatgpts-ghibli-art-to-create-iconic-scene-from-bhagavad-gita/articleshow/119641945.cms). This calls for proactive engagement from political entities in creating guidelines that promote the ethical use of AI in cultural expression.

Finally, AI-generated content may also intersect with political discussions surrounding misinformation and propaganda. As technology like Ghiblify becomes more prevalent, there is potential for misuse in crafting narratives that appear culturally authentic but are artificially manufactured, thereby influencing public perception and policy [1](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/etimes/trending/perplexity-ceo-aravind-srinivas-uses-chatgpts-ghibli-art-to-create-iconic-scene-from-bhagavad-gita/articleshow/119641945.cms). Such scenarios demand robust political frameworks to manage and mitigate the dissemination of falsified cultural content.

Future of AI-Generated Art

The future of AI-generated art is a thrilling exploration into the balance between technological innovation and traditional artistry. As AI tools like 'Ghiblify' embed themselves into creative processes, they open doors to new forms of expression while simultaneously challenging existing definitions of art and creativity. The transformation of mundane images into Studio Ghibli-style illustrations, highlighted by Perplexity AI CEO Aravind Srinivas's depiction of the Bhagavad Gita scene [], symbolizes the blend of cultural reverence with avant-garde technology. The novelty of such initiatives lies not only in their visual appeal but in their ability to make art creation more accessible and interactive for a broader audience.

The advancement of 'Ghiblify' represents a significant shift in the art landscape, mirroring the broader trend of integrating AI across various domains. The potential to democratize art through AI tools may unsettle traditional art markets, as people explore cost-effective and innovative ways to produce art []. While this opens up myriad opportunities for digital engagement and engagement, it equally poses threats to artists whose livelihoods depend on their unique styles being irreplicable by machines. The continuous development of AI features like 'Ghiblify' underscores the need for conversations around intellectual property rights and ethical use of digital technologies in art creation.

The juxtaposition of digital phenomena like 'Ghiblify' with classical art forms raises essential questions about cultural appropriation and content ownership. When AI technology is used to recreate stylistically unique art forms, such as Studio Ghibli's, a debate ensues about artistic integrity and the limits of AI's role in creative industries. While some view these technologies as transformative and creatively liberating, others, including figures like Hayao Miyazaki, consider them disruptive and disrespectful to the essence of human-driven artistry []. Hence, the future of AI-generated art will depend significantly on how society chooses to regulate and integrate these developments.

Looking forward, the sustainability of AI art extensions like 'Ghiblify' will hinge on their socio-economic impacts and the adaptability of related legal frameworks. Nations worldwide may need to review and revise laws surrounding digital art to accommodate this AI-driven paradigm shift. As the boundaries between AI-generated content and traditional art continue to blur, governments and legal institutions will play critical roles in defining new paths for intellectual property rights and the authenticity of digital creations []. The drive towards developing more robust policies could also foster international cooperation to protect cultural heritage in an increasingly digital age.