Actor John Abraham reacts strongly to actors endorsing paan-masala, saying "You are selling death"

Digital Desk: Actor John Abraham has taken a strong stance against celebrities endorsing paan-masala brands, stating unequivocally that he would never promote such products, which he believes endanger lives. His remarks came during an appearance on The Ranveer Show podcast, where he expressed his disapproval of actors who endorse these harmful products while maintaining a public image of promoting health and wellness.

John, known for his commitment to fitness and a healthy lifestyle, was candid in his criticism. He emphasized the importance of consistency between one's public persona and private behavior, stressing that he could never reconcile promoting paan-masala with the principles he lives by. "If I live my life with honesty, and if I practice what I preach, then I’m a role model. But if I’m presenting a fake version of myself in public and behaving like a different person behind their back, they’ll spot it," he stated.

The actor didn’t shy away from addressing the hypocrisy he sees in the entertainment industry. He noted that many actors, who publicly champion health and fitness, simultaneously appear in advertisements for paan-masala, a product closely associated with tobacco use and its severe health risks. John criticized the common defense used by some celebrities, who claim they endorse mouth fresheners, not tobacco, as a disingenuous excuse. "You're selling death. How can you live with it?" he questioned.

While John carefully clarified that he harbors no ill will towards his fellow actors, he clarified that his stance is rooted in personal conviction.

"I love all my actor friends, and I’m not disrespecting any of them. I want to make it clear that I’m talking about myself. But I will not sell death, because it’s a matter of principle," he said. 

He also highlighted the immense financial power of the paan-masala industry, which he noted has an annual turnover of Rs 45,000 crore. John pointed out that the legality of tobacco sales in India suggests government support, making the ethical choice to reject such endorsements all the more significant.

The actor's comments come at a time when several high-profile celebrities have faced backlash for their association with paan-masala brands. Among them, Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn, and Akshay Kumar have been prominently featured in such advertisements. 

Ajay Devgn has repeatedly stated that his endorsements pertain to mouth fresheners like cardamom, while Akshay Kumar, after facing criticism, publicly announced his withdrawal from such endorsements. In a post on X, Akshay clarified that while he had shot ads in October 2021, he had since discontinued his association with the brand. He added that the company retained the legal right to air previously shot commercials until a specified date.

As John Abraham continues to promote his latest film, Vedaa, his comments have sparked discussions about the role of celebrities in influencing public behavior and the ethical responsibilities that come with it. Directed by Nikhil Advani and co-starring Sharvari Wagh and Abhishek Banerjee, Vedaa is set for release on August 15. As the film’s release date approaches, John's outspoken views on paan-masala endorsements may well overshadow the usual promotional buzz, highlighting a conversation about health, ethics, and the power of celebrity in India.