Akshay Kumar had an amusing response when a journalist brought up the ongoing debate around celebrity endorsements of pan masala and asked him a cheeky question during a recent event. Instead of addressing the matter directly, the actor broke into laughter, turning the exchange into a lighthearted moment. The incident happened at a promotional event after the company announced Akshay as its brand ambassador in India on August 20.
Journalist puts Akshay Kumar on the spot
During the interaction, a female journalist connected Akshay’s new brand association with the ongoing controversy involving Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn and Tiger Shroff. She asked the actor, “Sab kesar bech rahe hain, aap Acer bech rahe hain?” (Everyone is selling saffron, while you are selling Acer?)The unexpected question left Akshay amused. Rather than offering a detailed answer, the actor burst out laughing. His reaction was recorded on video and has since started circulating on social media.
Question comes amid Pan Masala Ad controversy
The journalist’s remark came against the backdrop of the controversy surrounding an advertisement featuring Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn and Tiger Shroff. The commercial has faced scrutiny over allegations that it indirectly promotes Vimal Pan Masala through the promotion of an associated mouth freshener product.The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration recently issued show-cause notices to the three actors in connection with the advertisement.
Maharashtra FDA raises concerns
The Maharashtra FDA has alleged that the commercial could amount to indirect or surrogate advertising of a pan masala product, which is prohibited under the applicable rules in the state.The department described the notice as a “final warning” and stated that the advertisement appeared prima facie to be misleading in relation to food products. It also cited provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, along with regulations framed under the legislation.The action is part of broader inspections being carried out by the Maharashtra FDA under Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe. The department has been examining food outlets and products as part of its efforts to monitor safety, hygiene and other regulatory concerns.
Akshay Kumar chooses laughter over a detailed response
Akshay has previously faced public discussion over celebrity endorsements of pan masala brands, making the journalist’s question particularly pointed. However, on this occasion, the actor chose not to engage with the controversy. His laughter became the entire response, with the short exchange drawing attention online for its unexpected and humorous tone.
