Bollywood star John Abraham criticizes paan masala endorsements by big actors, calling them “selling death,” urging celebrities to uphold fitness values and reject harmful brand promotions despite the industry’s massive ₨1.5 trillion turnover.
By Imran Malik – August 9, 2024
WEBDESK — Bollywood actor John Abraham has launched a sharp critique of film industry peers who endorse paan masala brands, calling such promotions equivalent to “selling death.” Speaking during a podcast with Ranveer Allahabadia, Abraham said the endorsements contradict the health-conscious image many stars publicly promote.
“People talk about fitness, and the same people endorse paan masala,” Abraham said. “I love all my actor friends, and I’m not disrespecting any of them. I’m talking about myself. But I will not sell death, because it’s a matter of principle.”
The fitness-focused actor cited the staggering ₹45,000 crore annual turnover of India’s paan masala industry, questioning how celebrities can reconcile promoting a product linked to serious health risks. “Even the government is supporting it, and that’s why it isn’t illegal. You’re selling death. How can you live with it?” he said.
The debate over such endorsements has previously drawn public backlash against major actors, including Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn, and Akshay Kumar. Kumar later announced his withdrawal from paan masala advertisements, aligning with Abraham’s stance.
With his upcoming action thriller Vedaa set to release on Aug. 15, Abraham stressed the importance of authenticity, both on and off screen. “If I live my life with honesty and practice what I preach, then I’m a role model,” he said. “But if I present a fake version of myself in public and behave differently in private, people will notice.”
Abraham’s upcoming slate also includes The Diplomat, Tariq, and Tehran, all produced under his JA Entertainment banner.
