Bollywood celebrities endorsing tobacco and alcohol brands has long been a topic of heated debate. While such advertisements often come with massive pay cheques, they also invite criticism, especially in an era where public figures are expected to be socially responsible. Amid this ongoing conversation, actor Suniel Shetty has once again set an example by revealing that he rejected a staggering ₹40 crore tobacco advertisement offer—simply because it went against his beliefs.
The actor recently opened up about this decision during a candid conversation on a podcast with Peeping Moon, where he spoke at length about health, values, and the kind of legacy he wants to leave behind.
“My Health Gave Me Everything,” Says Suniel Shetty
Suniel Shetty, known for his disciplined lifestyle and fitness-first approach, made it clear that his decision was rooted in self-respect and principle rather than money. Explaining why he has never endorsed tobacco brands, the actor said his body and health are the very foundations of his career.
“I owe everything to my health. It’s my body that gave Suniel Shetty an opportunity in the film business,” he shared.
The actor went on to compare his body to a place of worship, emphasizing that compromising it for money would be a betrayal of self. According to him, endorsing harmful products would not only be dishonest but also disrespectful to the values he has lived by throughout his life.
Rejecting ₹40 Crore Without a Second Thought
During the podcast, Suniel Shetty revealed that he was once offered ₹40 crore to endorse a tobacco brand—an amount that could tempt almost anyone. However, his response was firm and unambiguous.
“I was offered ₹40 crore for a tobacco ad, and I looked at them and said, ‘Do you really think I’ll fall for it?’ I won’t,” he said.
While acknowledging that the money could have been useful, the actor stood by his decision, stating that financial gain can never justify promoting something he does not believe in. He stressed that taking such a deal would leave a permanent blemish—not just on him, but also on his family.
Concern for Family and Legacy
One of the strongest reasons behind Suniel Shetty’s refusal was the impact such an endorsement could have on his children—Ahan Shetty, Athiya Shetty, and his son-in-law Rahul.
“I will not do something I don’t believe in, because it would leave a blemish on Ahan, Athiya and Rahul, on everybody,” he explained.
For Suniel, legacy is not about box office numbers or current relevance in cinema. It’s about the values he passes on and the example he sets for the next generation—both within his family and among his fans.
Respect From the Younger Generation Matters More
Interestingly, Suniel Shetty also spoke about how relevance in cinema is fleeting, but respect endures. Despite not being at the center of the box office race today, he continues to receive admiration from young fans.
“I may not be relevant today when it comes to cinema or the box office, but even now, 17- to 20-year-olds give me so much love and respect. It’s unreal,” he said.
This respect, according to him, comes from consistency in values and authenticity—qualities that money cannot buy.
A Rare Stand in Bollywood
In an industry where celebrity endorsements play a huge role in brand marketing, Suniel Shetty’s stance stands out. While many actors face backlash for promoting tobacco and alcohol products, his refusal has earned him praise for prioritizing ethics over earnings.
The actor also revealed that after turning down the tobacco ad, brands stopped approaching him with such offers altogether—perhaps recognizing that his principles were non-negotiable.
More Than Just an Actor
Suniel Shetty’s revelation is not just about rejecting a ₹40 crore deal; it’s about choosing integrity in an industry driven by glamour and profit. His words serve as a reminder that true influence lies not in endorsements, but in the courage to say no when something doesn’t align with one’s beliefs.
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