A growing number of Bollywood actors and Indian celebrities are choosing to turn down lucrative deals for endorsing paan masala and tobacco-related products. These endorsements, often worth crores, are being rejected on ethical grounds, as stars prioritise their responsibility to fans over financial gains. Here’s a look at the prominent figures who have taken a stand against endorsing such brands:
1. Anil Kapoor:
Anil Kapoor recently turned down a ₹10 crore deal to endorse a paan masala brand. As reported by an entertainment portal, Anil Kapoor felt a sense of duty towards his fans and refused the offer, believing it was inappropriate to promote products that could harm public health. He will soon be seen in “Subedaar”, an action-drama directed by Suresh Triveni.
2. Kartik Aaryan:
Earlier this year, Kartik Aaryan revealed in an interview that he has consistently refused offers from paan masala and similar brands. He said that he doesn’t relate with such things and he tries to refuse this type of endorsements. The actor emphasised that everyone has their own views but these deals don’t align with his plans. Kartik is currently promoting “Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3” which is set for a Diwali release and he will once again reprise his role of Rooh Baba. The movie also stars Vidya Balan, Madhuri Dixit Nene and Triptii Dimri in important roles.
3. Allu Arjun:
The “Pushpa” star has a strict policy against endorsing tobacco, paan or liquor brands. Last year, Allu Arjun declined a brand placement deal involving a ₹10 crore offer. The brand wanted its logo visible when the actor smoked or drank on screen but Allu rejected the proposal, stating that he doesn’t consume such products. He is set to star in “Pushpa: The Rule” which will release on December 6.
4. Yash:
In 2022, “KGF” star Yash refused a multi-crore endorsement deal for a paan masala and cardamom brand. His management team, Exceed Entertainment, confirmed the decision, highlighting Yash’s pan-India appeal and commitment to delivering the right messages to his fans. Yash is soon to appear in “Toxic: A Fairytale For Grown-ups” and is co-producing “Ramayana” starring Ranbir Kapoor and Sai Pallavi.
5. Smriti Irani:
Former actress and current politician Smriti Irani also rejected a lucrative paan masala endorsement early in her career, despite the need of money to pay off a home loan. On a podcast, she explained that her refusal stemmed from the knowledge that families and youngsters were watching her and she didn’t want to promote a harmful product.
Other Celebrities Who Refused Paan Masala Endorsements:
John Abraham has long been vocal about refusing to endorse harmful products, stating he would never promote something which could cause health issues.
Ammy Virk also denied promoting paan masala, stressing that no amount of money or success would make him endorse such products.
In 2022, Akshay Kumar announced that he would no longer endorse paan masala brands, after initially appearing in an advertisement for a pan masala brand with Ajay Devgn and Shah Rukh Khan. Akshay apologised to his fans, stating that he would use the fee for a worthy cause.
Well it depends on an individual celeb what he wants to promote and what he doesn’t want to endorse but don’t you think that movie celebs and sportspersons, especially cricketers, should refrain from promoting pan masala and tobacco brands?
