17 August,2026 10:06 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Sunny Deol (Picture via X)
Sunny Deol has made it clear that he has no plans to endorse pan masala, saying his conscience does not allow him to promote products he does not believe in. The actor's comments come at a time when Bollywood celebrities Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn and Tiger Shroff have received notices from the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) over alleged indirect promotion of pan masala.
In a recent conversation with YouTuber Shubhankar Mishra, Sunny spoke about his approach to brand endorsements and revealed that he has turned down offers when he did not agree with the product. Addressing pan masala advertisements specifically, the actor said he does not do such commercials and would never consider doing them in the future.
Sunny explained that although he receives offers, he chooses to reject them because he does not want to promote something he personally does not believe in. He further stressed that his decisions are guided by his principles and conscience rather than simply by the financial benefits that come with celebrity endorsements.
The actor said that there are several things he chooses not to do because his "zameer" does not permit him to. At the same time, he added that he does undertake work that he believes is appropriate. His remarks underline his stated preference for being selective about the brands and projects with which he associates himself.
Sunny's comments have gained attention because of the ongoing controversy surrounding pan masala endorsements involving some of Bollywood's biggest stars. Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn and Tiger Shroff have been issued show-cause notices by the Maharashtra FDA over their appearance in a 2024 advertisement for Vimal elaichi. The brand is associated with pan masala products, and the FDA has raised concerns that such advertising could amount to surrogate or indirect promotion of prohibited pan masala or tobacco-related products.
According to the report, the actors have been given 15 days from receiving the notices to submit their explanations. The FDA has warned that further action could follow if the responses are not submitted or are considered unsatisfactory.
Against this backdrop, Sunny's decision to publicly distance himself from pan masala advertising has sparked discussion about celebrity responsibility in brand endorsements. His comments also reflect the actor's long-stated image of making career choices based on personal principles.
The actor, who continues to remain active in Bollywood, has recently been in the spotlight for his film Batwara 1947. His latest remarks have now added another talking point around his public image and professional choices.
