States » WestPosted at: Sep 30 2026 3:41PM


Tukaram Mundhe takes dig at celebrities endorsing gutkha and pan masala

Mumbai, Sep 30 (UNI) Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe has criticised celebrities who endorse pan masala and gutkha products, questioning the responsibility of public figures who promote products that can have serious health consequences.
Speaking at a press conference, Mundhe said celebrities who choose to advertise pan masala or gutkha should first consider whether they would personally consume such products and allow their own children to develop the same habit.
“If you are advertising paan or gutkha, first consume it yourself. You should do that. Get your children accustomed to it and let them consume it. Then encourage others to develop the habit,” Mundhe said, in a pointed remark aimed at celebrities associated with such advertisements.
Mundhe stressed that appearing in an advertisement is not merely a commercial exercise but also involves taking responsibility for the product being promoted. According to him, public figures who endorse consumer products have an influence on people's choices and perceptions.
“Advertising is not just about giving your face to a product,” Mundhe said. He added that people appearing in advertisements should recognise their responsibility regarding what the public is encouraged to consume and what it is expected to believe.
His remarks come amid continuing concerns over the promotion of pan masala, gutkha and other tobacco or tobacco-related products through high-profile advertising campaigns. Celebrities from the film and entertainment industries have frequently featured in advertisements for pan masala brands, some of which are promoted as mouth fresheners or under surrogate advertising formats.
The FDA has been scrutinising advertisements and promotional activities involving products that fall under food, tobacco, and related regulatory frameworks. The issue of celebrity endorsements has also attracted public debate, particularly because such advertisements can reach a large audience and may influence young consumers.
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