Veteran actor Mukesh Khanna has voiced his strong disapproval of Bollywood celebrities endorsing pan masala and tobacco products, criticizing them for their roles in such advertisements. In a recent interview with Bollywood Bubble, Khanna expressed his frustration over the influential stars participating in campaigns for these products, despite their high public profiles.
Khanna, known for his candid opinions on various issues, didn’t hold back in his criticism. He recounted how he personally confronted Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar over his involvement in such ads. “If you ask me, I’d say, inko pakad ke maarna chaahiye (catch them and beat them up). I have told this to them. I have even scolded Akshay Kumar. He is such a health-conscious man otherwise,” Khanna stated. He pointed out the irony of stars like Kumar, Ajay Devgn, and Shah Rukh Khan promoting products that are harmful to health, despite their public personas advocating for wellness.
The controversy over celebrity endorsements of tobacco brands, such as the advertisement featuring Shah Rukh Khan, Akshay Kumar, and Ajay Devgn for Vimal, had previously sparked backlash from fans and social media users. Many criticized the stars for endorsing products linked to serious health risks. Khanna’s remarks come in the wake of this ongoing debate, underscoring the concern over the impact of such endorsements on the public.
Khanna also criticized the deceptive nature of these ads, suggesting that they mislead viewers about the true nature of the products being promoted. He argued that advertisements for products like Kingfisher beer, despite being overt, still contribute to the same problem by glamorizing substance use. “When you do a Kingfisher ad, it means you are selling Kingfisher beer. Everybody knows it, it is called deceptive ad,” he said.
In his interview, Khanna revealed that he had been approached for similar advertisements but had refused to participate. He urged celebrities to reconsider their involvement in such promotions, emphasizing the significant influence they have on their audiences. “People are spraying colour on each other, (and saying) Kesariya jabaan (saffron tongue)? You are teaching people to consume guthka!” Khanna added.
The actor’s comments resonate with a broader concern about the responsibility of public figures in shaping societal behaviors and attitudes. As Bollywood stars continue to wield substantial influence, Khanna’s call for greater accountability and ethical considerations in advertising remains a poignant reminder of the power and responsibility that come with celebrity status.
Sources By Agencies
