Shah Rukh Khan Faces Backlash Over Paan Masala Ad

Bollywood actress and international star Kubbra Sait attributes much of her success to the formative years she spent in Dubai.

Shah Rukh Khan Faces Backlash - Gulf Repost

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan is facing widespread criticism following his endorsement of a paan masala brand, after Indian YouTuber Dhruv Rathee questioned the actor’s decision to promote such products. In a viral video, Rathee highlighted the ethical concerns of endorsing consumables linked to health risks, pointing out that Khan, with an estimated net worth of $1.4 billion, does not need additional income from such promotions.

Dhruv Rathee’s Viral Criticism

In the video, Rathee asked, “Kya itne paise kaafi nahi hai?” (“Isn’t this amount of money enough?”), challenging Khan’s choice to appear in the advertisement. Rathee emphasized the potential dangers of paan masala consumption and raised broader questions about celebrity responsibility in endorsing products that could affect public health.

The clip quickly gained traction on social media, sparking debates about whether high-profile figures should weigh ethical implications over financial incentives when promoting products.

Past Controversies

This is not the first time Shah Rukh Khan has faced backlash for product endorsements. In 2025, he, alongside actors Ajay Devgn and Tiger Shroff, was summoned by a Jaipur consumer forum over a Vimal Pan Masala advertisement, which falsely claimed that every grain contained saffron. The forum issued notices to the actors and JB Industries, the manufacturer, citing the product’s potential health risks.

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The repeated scrutiny highlights the delicate balance celebrities must maintain between lucrative endorsements and public perception, especially in sectors where products may impact health.

Public Response and Implications

While Khan has not publicly addressed Rathee’s recent criticism, social media reactions have been mixed. Fans of the actor defend his right to earn through brand endorsements, while others argue that promoting paan masala sends the wrong message, especially to younger audiences.

The controversy underscores a growing expectation that celebrities, particularly those with substantial wealth and influence, consider the societal impact of their promotional activities.

Sara Al Mansoori

Sara Al Mansoori

Sara covers movies, celebrities, music, and cultural events. With her fresh take on entertainment, she connects global trends with regional audiences.

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