Top News

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan: is once again in the spotlight, but this time not for his movies. The actor has been served with a notice by the Kota Consumer Court over his endorsement of a pan masala brand, accused of running misleading advertisements. The case was filed by Inder Mohan Singh Honey, a senior BJP leader and Rajasthan High Court counsel, who alleged that the ad promotes harmful consumption among youth. According to him, the campaign misrepresents the product as containing saffron-infused cardamom and saffron-infused pan masala, misleading consumers about its quality and ingredients.

Allegations of False Advertising and Public Misguidance
The complaint claims that the advertisement intentionally paints a luxurious image of a product that costs only Rs 5, creating false perceptions about its composition. Honey emphasized that saffron, being an expensive spice costing nearly Rs 4 lakh per kilogram, cannot possibly be part of such an affordable product. He described the commercial as a violation of consumer trust and a threat to public health awareness, especially because it glamorizes the use of substances linked to mouth cancer.

Public Reaction and Responsibility of Celebrities
The incident has sparked a larger conversation about the social responsibility of celebrities in advertising. As a public figure admired by millions, Salman Khan’s involvement in such endorsements is being heavily criticized. Honey stated that international celebrities avoid promoting harmful products, yet in India, film stars are frequently seen endorsing tobacco, alcohol, and pan masala brands. This, he argued, sends a dangerous message to impressionable youth, encouraging them to try harmful substances under the illusion of glamour and sophistication.

Legal Proceedings and Future Implications
Following the complaint, the Kota Consumer Court has issued a notice to Salman Khan and the pan masala manufacturer, requesting a formal response. The next hearing is scheduled for November 27, 2025. The case has become a matter of national interest, highlighting the urgent need for stricter advertising regulations and accountability in celebrity promotions. Legal experts suggest that this could set a precedent for future cases involving false advertising and consumer protection.

Impact on Youth and Society
The ongoing controversy sheds light on the dangerous influence of celebrity-backed marketing in shaping youth behavior. When film icons promote products associated with serious health risks, it normalizes consumption patterns that can lead to long-term harm. The case against Salman Khan underscores the importance of transparency and ethical conduct in marketing, especially in a country where millions of fans look up to movie stars as role models.

Conclusion
This legal dispute serves as a wake-up call for both advertisers and public figures. Endorsements are powerful tools of persuasion, and with great influence comes greater responsibility. If proven misleading, such advertisements not only damage consumer trust but also pose significant threats to public health. The hearing’s outcome could influence how Indian celebrities choose their brand partnerships in the future, pushing for more responsible and authentic advertising practices.