A year after backlash, Akshay Kumar returns in Vimal ad with Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn; netizens are not too happy
Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar has returned in an ad for Vimal, a tobacco brand, despite facing backlash in the past. Netizens expressed disappointment and confusion over Kumar's decision, as he had previously apologised and promised to step back fr...
By ET Online | Updated:
Agencies
Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar has made a return as the brand ambassador of Vimal, a tobacco brand, over a year after facing significant backlash for his association with the company.
Kumar’s return was confirmed through a recently released advertisement featuring him alongside fellow actors Shah Rukh Khan and Ajay Devgn, which has quickly gone viral.
In the advertisement, Khan and Devgn were depicted waiting in a car for Kumar, who was unaware, immersed in his music with headphones on. Despite multiple attempts by others to get his attention, Kumar remains oblivious.
Devgn then opens a packet of Vimal pan masala, which grabs Akshay’s attention due to its aroma. The trio then perform the brand's signature move.
This decision of the 56-year-old actor to feature in the advertisement has raised eyebrows among netizens, who were quick to express their disappointment and confusion regarding Akshay’s decision to return to endorsing tobacco products, especially after his public apology and assurance to step back from such endorsements.
They expressed their frustration, with comments questioning Kumar’s integrity and his commitment to his previous statements. A disgruntled fan commented, "Akshay Kumar was not going to do Vimal ads, then what happened? What is this decision? Unhappy, upset, he didn't stick to his words."
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However, there were a few who came out in the actor's defence stating that this new advertisement was part of Kumar's ongoing contract with the brand and must have been shot earlier.
"It was already shot two years back and they are just airing it now. Haven't u seen those banners where all of them are wearing the same outfit? I know it was wrong but then he has already apologised ."
"Contract of 3 yrs...3 ads will come ...one by one per year"
In 2022, Kumar faced a wave of criticism from his fans and well-wishers when he initially associated himself with Vimal.
Meanwhile, Kumar, who's latest release 'Mission Raniganj' is currently running in theatres, has a slew of upcoming movies, including 'Singham 3'.
Kumar’s return was confirmed through a recently released advertisement featuring him alongside fellow actors Shah Rukh Khan and Ajay Devgn, which has quickly gone viral.
In the advertisement, Khan and Devgn were depicted waiting in a car for Kumar, who was unaware, immersed in his music with headphones on. Despite multiple attempts by others to get his attention, Kumar remains oblivious.
Devgn then opens a packet of Vimal pan masala, which grabs Akshay’s attention due to its aroma. The trio then perform the brand's signature move.
This decision of the 56-year-old actor to feature in the advertisement has raised eyebrows among netizens, who were quick to express their disappointment and confusion regarding Akshay’s decision to return to endorsing tobacco products, especially after his public apology and assurance to step back from such endorsements.
They expressed their frustration, with comments questioning Kumar’s integrity and his commitment to his previous statements. A disgruntled fan commented, "Akshay Kumar was not going to do Vimal ads, then what happened? What is this decision? Unhappy, upset, he didn't stick to his words."
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However, there were a few who came out in the actor's defence stating that this new advertisement was part of Kumar's ongoing contract with the brand and must have been shot earlier.
"It was already shot two years back and they are just airing it now. Haven't u seen those banners where all of them are wearing the same outfit? I know it was wrong but then he has already apologised ."
"Contract of 3 yrs...3 ads will come ...one by one per year"
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In 2022, Kumar faced a wave of criticism from his fans and well-wishers when he initially associated himself with Vimal.
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In response to the backlash, he took to Instagram to apologise, stating, “I am sorry. I would like to apologise to you, all my fans, and well-wishers. While I have not and will not endorse tobacco, I respect the outpouring of your feelings in light of my association with Vimal Elaichi.”Meanwhile, Kumar, who's latest release 'Mission Raniganj' is currently running in theatres, has a slew of upcoming movies, including 'Singham 3'.
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