Prominent figures such as Anil Kapoor, John Abraham, and Ammy Virk have openly declined to endorse paan masala products, citing health risks and their personal convictions.
Anil Kapoor Declines Paan Masala Advertisement
Anil Kapoor recently turned down a highly profitable offer to become the face of a paan masala brand, aligning himself with actors like Allu Arjun, Kartik Aaryan, and Yash. According to Pinkvilla, Kapoor made this decision as he felt a “moral responsibility” to his fans. This move comes after the backlash received by stars like Akshay Kumar, Ajay Devgn, and Shah Rukh Khan, who faced criticism for endorsing such products. Akshay Kumar later distanced himself from the campaign and declared he would no longer support such brands.
Other Actors Who Declined Paan Masala Endorsements
Anil Kapoor
Reports indicate that Anil Kapoor was offered a staggering ₹10 crore by a prominent paan masala company. However, Kapoor declined the offer, stressing his responsibility to the public. He emphasized that promoting a product potentially harmful to health, no matter the financial reward, was not aligned with his values. Kapoor is set to appear in the action-packed drama Subedaar, directed by Suresh Triveni. He is also co-producing the film alongside Vikram Malhotra and Suresh Triveni.
Kartik Aaryan
Earlier this year, Kartik Aaryan revealed in an interview with The Lallantop that he has consistently refused offers from brands selling supari or paan masala. He explained that such endorsements contradict his personal beliefs, and he has consciously chosen to reject them. While he acknowledged that others might have different viewpoints, he felt uncomfortable supporting these products. Kartik is currently promoting Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, which is scheduled for a Diwali release. The film stars Madhuri Dixit and Vidya Balan, with Kartik reprising his role as Rooh Baba. The movie also features Tripti Dimri, Rajpal Yadav, Sanjay Mishra, and Vijay Raaz and is directed by Anees Bazmee.
Allu Arjun
Allu Arjun is well-known for refusing to promote products associated with harmful substances. Last year, he rejected a paan masala brand’s offer to feature their logo in scenes where his character smokes or drinks. Despite being offered ₹10 crore, Arjun turned it down due to his discomfort with endorsing such items. Following the massive success of Pushpa, he received another offer from a tobacco company for a TV commercial, but once again, he refused, stating he does not consume tobacco. His upcoming film Pushpa: The Rule, directed by Sukumar, is set to release on December 6 and will also feature Rashmika Mandanna and Fahadh Faasil.
Yash
In 2022, actor Yash also declined a significant endorsement deal from a paan masala and cardamom brand. His management agency, Exceed Entertainment, issued a statement highlighting Yash’s sense of responsibility towards his wide fanbase. The agency stressed that Yash only partners with brands that align with his values and long-term ethical goals. Yash is preparing to appear in Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-ups, directed by Geetu Mohandas, and is also involved in producing Nitesh Tiwari’s adaptation of Ramayana, starring Ranbir Kapoor and Sai Pallavi.
Smriti Irani
Politician and former actress Smriti Irani once revealed on The Ranveer Show that she had been offered a paan masala endorsement during a time of financial hardship. She needed funds to make a down payment on a house and was offered an amount ten times what she owed. Despite her financial struggles, she turned down the offer, citing concerns over the negative influence such an ad could have on families and young audiences. Smriti recalled that many believed she was making a mistake by refusing, but she stood firm on her decision.
Other Celebrities Who Refused Paan Masala Endorsements
Besides these prominent names, other stars like John Abraham and Ammy Virk have also taken strong stands against endorsing paan masala products. John Abraham has been vocal in criticizing fellow actors for promoting items that jeopardize public health, equating it to endorsing harmful substances. He firmly stated, “I won’t sell death; it’s about my principles.” Similarly, Ammy Virk declared he would never promote paan masala, regardless of the financial or career benefits.
Actors Who Have Endorsed Paan Masala Products
In contrast, actors such as Akshay Kumar have previously appeared in paan masala ads. Akshay Kumar, along with Ajay Devgn and Shah Rukh Khan, once promoted Vimal’s cardamom range, a brand that also manufactures tobacco products. This endorsement sparked widespread criticism. However, Akshay later distanced himself from the campaign and apologized to his fans, pledging to donate his earnings from the ad to charity.
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