23 September 2026 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : President Droupadi Murmu has urged popular film actors and artists not to endorse products that could be harmful to public health, stressing the influence celebrities have on children and young people.
Speaking at the 72nd National Film Awards ceremony in Gujarat’s Ekta Nagar, near the Statue of Unity, Murmu said successful artists can encourage millions of young people to follow healthier and more disciplined lifestyles.
‘True Star Spreads Light, Not Darkness’
Murmu said popular artists have significant influence over society, particularly young audiences.
She urged celebrities to avoid promoting products harmful to health and said that a “true star” should spread light rather than darkness. Her remarks placed emphasis on the responsibility that comes with celebrity influence.
Remarks Come Amid Celebrity Ad Controversy
The President’s comments come weeks after the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued show-cause notices to actors Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn and Tiger Shroff over their association with a Vimal Elaichi advertisement.
The Maharashtra FDA alleged that the advertisement amounted to surrogate promotion of Vimal Pan Masala, which is prohibited in Maharashtra. The actors were asked to explain their involvement in the campaign.
The actors’ involvement in the advertisement and the regulator’s allegations are separate from Murmu’s speech; the President did not name the actors in her remarks.
Celebrities and Public Influence
Murmu highlighted that when well-known artists speak about disciplined lifestyles, their messages can reach and influence millions of young people.
Her comments underline the wider public-health concern surrounding celebrity advertising, particularly when products being promoted may have health risks or are subject to regulatory restrictions.
Call for Greater Responsibility
The President’s appeal places the focus on the responsibility of public figures when associating themselves with commercial products.
With actors often having large youth audiences, endorsements can influence consumer behaviour and perceptions of products. Murmu’s message was therefore framed around the broader social responsibility of popular artists.
Murmu Seeks More Women on Film Award Juries
During the same address, Murmu also called for greater participation of women on the juries that select films for the National Film Awards.
She said women’s participation should be ensured in every regional jury, arguing that incorporating women’s perspectives can contribute to a more holistic outlook.
Appeal for Dignity and Social Security for Film Workers
Murmu also called on the film industry to ensure respect and social security for workers, assistants, small-scale artists and others who contribute to the creative economy.
She recalled that during the previous National Film Awards ceremony, she had urged the industry to make respect and sensitivity towards every member of a film crew part of its work culture.
72nd National Film Awards Ceremony
The ceremony honoured several prominent figures from Indian cinema. Veteran Kannada actor Anant Nag received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, while Yami Gautam and Kartik Aaryan were among the actors honoured for leading performances.
Hindi film Article 370 was also recognised as the Best Feature Film at the ceremony.
A Message Beyond Cinema
Murmu’s remarks extended beyond the film industry itself, focusing on how influential public figures can shape social attitudes.
Her appeal comes amid continuing debate over the responsibilities of celebrities when endorsing consumer products, particularly those associated with potential health risks or regulatory concerns.