Salman Khan's Pan Masala Ad Faces Legal Challenge
Salman Khan, the popular Bollywood actor, has landed in legal trouble in Kota, Rajasthan, following a complaint regarding his advertisement for a well-known pan masala brand. The complaint was filed by Inder Mohan Singh Honey, a senior BJP leader and advocate at the Rajasthan High Court. He alleges that the advertisements for Rajshree Pan Masala are misleading, claiming that the product contains "saffron-infused cardamom" and "saffron-infused pan masala." This raises questions about the authenticity of such claims.
The complainant highlighted the exorbitant cost of saffron, approximately ₹4 lakh per kilogram, arguing that it is implausible for a product priced at just ₹5 to contain such an expensive ingredient. This discrepancy has fueled concerns over the advertising practices of celebrity endorsements in India. Honey further stated that such misleading promotions could prompt young people to consume pan masala, which has been linked to an increase in oral cancer cases.
"Salman Khan is a role model for millions. By promoting such products, he’s sending the wrong message to youth," Honey remarked. He pointed out that while celebrities in other countries refrain from promoting unhealthy products like cold drinks, Indian stars often endorse pan masala and tobacco, which can have serious health implications. He urged these celebrities to stop spreading harmful messages through their endorsements.
The Kota Consumer Court has taken cognizance of the complaint and has issued notices to both Salman Khan and the manufacturing company, requesting their responses. The court has scheduled the next hearing for November 27, 2025. As the case unfolds, it raises significant questions about the responsibilities of celebrities in promoting products and the potential impact on public health.
This situation highlights the broader issue of misleading advertisements in India and the influence of celebrity endorsements on consumer behavior, especially among the youth. The outcome of this legal battle could set a precedent for how advertising standards are regulated in the country.
