CBFC pulls down Akshay Kumar’s anti-smoking Nandu ad after six years

CBFC pulls down iconic Akshay Kumar anti-smoking ad after six years

Moviegoers will no longer see Akshay Kumar’s widely recognized anti-smoking advertisement, affectionately known as the "Nandu ad," in theatres.

Recent reports indicate that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has decided to withdraw the ad, six years after its initial release. While the exact reasons behind this decision remain unclear, it has been confirmed that the Nandu ad will be replaced by a new anti-tobacco advertisement.

According to reports, the absence of the Nandu ad was noted in the recent promotional content titled Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video. The decision to remove the ad was reportedly made last month, and the replacement ad focuses on the positive effects of quitting tobacco, highlighting the benefits of a smoke-free life.

For those unfamiliar with its content, the ad featured Akshay Kumar alongside Ajay Singh Pal, who portrayed the character Nandu. In the ad, Nandu is depicted smoking a cigarette while discussing his wife’s hygiene issues, cleverly intertwining humor with a serious message. Interestingly, Akshay also starred in the film Pad Man, which addressed women’s hygiene and menstrual health, showing his commitment to raising awareness about important societal issues.

The inclusion of public service announcements like the Nandu ad became mandatory in Indian theaters in 2012, as per the directives of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

These regulations required the screening of anti-smoking advertisements both before the film begins and after the intermission, aiming to reduce tobacco consumption and promote healthier lifestyle choices among viewers.

The removal of the Nandu ad marks a significant change in this ongoing campaign, as audiences will now be exposed to different messages aimed at encouraging a tobacco-free life.