During the trailer launch event of Jolly LLB 3 in Kanpur on September 11, 2025, Akshay Kumar made headlines not just for the film but for a pointed message about tobacco consumption. When a reporter referred to Kanpur’s association with gutka (chewing tobacco), Akshay responded firmly: “Gutka nahi khana chahiye” (“One should not consume gutka”), urging the public away from tobacco use.
His reply turned sharper when the reporter attempted to interrupt. Kumar quipped, “Interview mera hai ya tumhara? Main bol raha hoon, gutka nahi khana chahiye, that’s it. Next question.” (“Is this my interview or yours? I’m saying one should not eat gutka, that’s it.”)
The clip quickly went viral on social media, drawing both praise and criticism. Many applauded Akshay Kumar for taking a stand, especially given concerns over rising tobacco usage and health risks. Others pointed out a contradiction: in the past, Akshay had to apologize for his involvement with advertisements for pan-masala/gutka brands, including surrogate advertising campaigns.
Jolly LLB 3, which features Akshay Kumar and Arshad Warsi reprising their popular characters in the courtroom comedy series, is set for release on September 19, 2025. The prominent cast also includes Saurabh Shukla, Huma Qureshi, Amrita Rao, and Seema Biswas.
Akshay’s curt admonition against gutka at the promotional event underscores how Bollywood stars’ past endorsements can continue to influence public perception. While many see this as a positive public health message, others view it through the lens of his earlier controversies asking whether his current stance is reflected in past promotional work. Either way, his message has stirred significant conversation just days before Jolly LLB 3 hits the screens.
