President Murmu urges film stars not to endorse health-harming products
President Droupadi Murmu urged popular film stars not to endorse products that could be harmful to public health, stressing their influence on the country’s youth. Addressing the 72nd National Film Awards ceremony in Gujarat, she said celebrities can inspire millions through their words and actions and emphasised that a “true star” should spread light, not darkness.
She said, “The film artists who are very popular have immense potential to influence the people of the country, especially the youth. When successful artists speak about the benefits of a disciplined lifestyle, millions of children and young people emulate them. I urge popular artists not to endorse products that are harmful to people's health. A true star is the one who spreads light, not darkness."endorsement Star , pic.twitter.com/5VPwBxK4Y2— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) September 22, 2026advertisement❮❯ Read Full StoryWomen in jury panelThe President also called for greater participation of women in the juries that select films for the National Film Awards. "I would like to see women's participation ensured in every regional jury," he said, noting that several women have received awards at the ceremony.
She said there should also be women’s representation on the jury, as “including women’s perspectives in any field makes it possible to create a holistic human perspective.”
It is worth noting that three prominent Bollywood actors, Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn and Tiger Shroff, have come under scrutiny over their association with a Pan Masala advertisement. Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe has issued notices to the actors. Mundhe said that while Shah Rukh, Ajay and Tiger may be celebrated as stars by the public, the FDA views them simply as advertisers when it comes to such endorsements.
In her speech, Murmu also called on the film industry to ensure dignity and social security for workers, small-scale artists, assistants and others who contribute to the creative economy while striving to establish themselves in the industry.
“Please ensure that the workers, small-scale artists, assistants, and those struggling to make their mark, who contribute to this economy, receive both respect and social security," President Murmu added.
President Murmu recalled that at the previous National Film Awards ceremony, she had urged the film industry to make respect and sensitivity towards every member of a film crew an integral part of its work culture. Meanwhile, earlier today, veteran actor Anant Nag was honoured with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award for his contribution to the growth and development of Indian cinema. Randeep Hooda received the Best Debut Film of a Director award at the 72nd National Film Awards for his biographical drama film Swatantrya Veer Savarkar.
Yami Gautam was honoured with the Best Actor for Article 370 and Kartik Aaryan for Chandu Champion. Mammootty received his fourth National Film Award on Tuesday. He has been honoured for his performance in Bramayugam.- EndsPublished By: Prachi aryaPublished On: Sep 22, 2026 23:53 ISTALSO READ | President Murmu presents Best Director Award to Rajkumar Periasamy for Amaran
