Bollywood actors endorsing tobacco and alcohol brands have long sparked debate, often triggering backlash over celebrity responsibility and influence on younger audiences. Amid this ongoing conversation, actor Suniel Shetty has drawn attention for taking a firm stand — revealing that he once rejected a ₹40 crore tobacco advertisement without hesitation.
The actor recently opened up about the decision, explaining why money was never enough to change his principles.
“My Health Is My Place of Worship”
Speaking on a podcast with Peeping Moon, Suniel Shetty reflected on his long-standing refusal to endorse tobacco brands, despite receiving massive offers.
He explained that his career — and life — has been built on physical discipline and wellness.
“I owe everything to my health. It’s my body that gave Suniel Shetty an opportunity in the film business,” he said, adding that if he didn’t treat it as sacred, he’d be doing himself a disservice.
What matters even more to him, he said, is the legacy he leaves behind.
Why He Walked Away From ₹40 Crore
Suniel revealed that when a tobacco brand offered him ₹40 crore, his response was immediate and blunt.
“I looked at them and said, ‘Do you really think I’ll fall for it?’ I won’t,” he recalled.
The actor admitted that while the money could have been useful, endorsing something he doesn’t believe in would leave a permanent mark — not just on him, but on his family. He specifically mentioned his children Ahan Shetty and Athiya Shetty, saying such decisions reflect beyond individual careers.
According to Suniel, after that refusal, brands stopped approaching him altogether — a consequence he seems entirely at peace with.
A Stark Contrast to Industry Trends
Suniel’s comments come at a time when several Bollywood stars have faced criticism for endorsing pan masala and chewing tobacco brands. Actors like Akshay Kumar and Ajay Devgn have been trolled online, especially given Akshay’s long-standing fitness image.
While Ajay Devgn has largely ignored the criticism, Akshay Kumar later issued a public apology to fans, acknowledging their disappointment.
Suniel, however, made it clear that avoiding such controversy altogether was a conscious choice.
Still Relevant, Still Respected
Interestingly, Suniel also addressed the idea of relevance in today’s cinema landscape. While he acknowledged that he may not currently dominate the box office, he pointed out that younger audiences — especially those aged 17 to 20 — continue to show him immense love and respect.
“That’s unreal,” he said, suggesting that integrity has its own lasting currency.
What’s Next for Suniel Shetty
On the work front, Suniel Shetty will next be seen in Welcome To The Jungle, the latest installment in the popular Welcome franchise. The film features an ensemble cast including Paresh Rawal, Sanjay Dutt, Arshad Warsi, Lara Dutta, Raveena Tandon, and Disha Patani.
The film, initially slated for a December release, is now expected to arrive later this year.
He also has Hera Pheri 3 in the pipeline, directed by Priyadarshan, reuniting him with Akshay Kumar and Paresh Rawal.
Final Words
In an industry where big endorsements often outweigh public scrutiny, Suniel Shetty’s decision to walk away from ₹40 crore stands out. Whether or not it affects his commercial relevance, the actor seems clear about one thing — some deals simply aren’t worth the cost.
