John Abraham Slams Big Stars for Endorsing Paan Masala: ‘Selling Death While Talking Fitness
John Abraham, celebrated for his dedication to fitness and healthy living, has taken a bold stand against actors who endorse ‘paan masala’ brands. During a recent podcast with Ranveer Allahabadia, Abraham articulated his concerns regarding the impact of such endorsements, highlighting the contradiction between promoting fitness and endorsing products known for their harmful health effects.
Abraham compared endorsing paan masala to “selling death,” asserting that these endorsements undermine the health-centric images many actors project. He stated, “People talk about fitness, and the same people endorse paan masala. 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.”
The actor elaborated further, pointing out the enormity of the paan masala industry, which boasts an impressive annual turnover of Rs. 45,000 crore. He questioned how actors could justify promoting a product that significantly contributes to health problems while publicly championing a healthy lifestyle. “Do you know that the yearly turnover for the paan masala industry is Rs. 45,000 crore? That means even the government is supporting it, and that’s why it isn’t illegal. You’re selling death. How can you live with it?”
This topic has sparked considerable controversy, with prominent figures like Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn, and Akshay Kumar facing backlash for their involvement in such advertisements. In response to criticism, Akshay Kumar has announced he will no longer endorse paan masala, aligning with Abraham’s viewpoint.
As John Abraham gears up for the release of his upcoming film Vedaa on August 15, he continues to advocate for integrity in both his personal and professional life. He expressed his desire to be a genuine role model, stating, “If I live my life with honesty, and if I practice what I preach, then I’m a role model.” His future projects include The Diplomat, Tariq, and Tehran, all produced under his banner, JA Entertainment.
