Bollywood actor Sunny Deol has recently landed at the centre of a social media debate regarding celebrity endorsements. Shortly after publicly declaring that he rejects all offers to endorse pan masala or gutkha products, an old advertisement featuring the actor surfaced online, drawing swift reactions from netizens pointing out the discrepancy.
Sunny Deol Says His Conscience Doesn’t Allow Him to Do Pan Masala Ads
Speaking during an interview on journalist Shubhankar Mishra’s podcast, Deol asserted that he actively turns down lucrative commercial offers for pan masala and gutkha brands. The actor explained that his personal ethics prevent him from promoting items he does not personally consume or support. “I don’t do pan masala ads, and I will never do them,” Deol stated during the interaction, emphasising that his conscience does not permit him to endorse products that are harmful or misleading.
His comments initially earned widespread praise from fans and social media users, particularly as public scrutiny surrounding surrogate tobacco advertising by mainstream actors continues to grow.
Watch Sunny Deol’s Podcast With Shubhankar Mishra:
Sunny Deol in Old Pan Masala Ad
However, the applause was short-lived as internet users quickly unearthed an archived television commercial that appeared to contradict his statements. The resurfaced video features Deol alongside actors Ravi Kishan and Vijay Raaz promoting a pan masala product.
In the commercial, Deol is seen arriving at a paan shop with two women and subsequently consuming the product. The ad also displays his face prominently on the product’s packaging, which carries a label stating “No Tobacco, No Nicotine”. Netizens were quick to share the clip across platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit, highlighting the contrast between his recent interview claims and his past endorsement choices.
Sunny Deol’s Old Pan Masala Ad With Ravi Kishan and Vijay Raaz Goes Viral
About ‘Batwara 1947’
Despite the online controversy, the veteran actor continues to focus on his cinematic ventures. Deol is currently featuring in the historical drama Batwara 1947, directed by Rajkumar Santoshi. Set against the tumultuous backdrop of the 1947 Partition, the film also stars Shabana Azmi, Preity Zinta, and Karan Deol. While the viral video has generated significant online chatter, Deol has yet to issue an official response regarding the resurfaced advertisement.