Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir has expressed his disappointment and disgust towards former cricketers endorsing pan masala, a harmful and unhealthy product, in advertisements. Gambhir criticized such endorsements, emphasizing the importance of being a responsible role model for the youth.
In an interview with News18 India, Gambhir stated, “Disgusting because in my life I had never thought a sportsperson would do a pan masala ad, and disappointing as I keep saying the same thing and will keep doing so, your role model should be chosen very carefully, after a lot of thought and deliberation. Name is not important; their actions are. Be it anybody. One is not known because of their name but because of their work actions.”
Gambhir stressed that the influence of cricketers as role models on millions of young people is significant, and the pursuit of money should not compromise their responsibility towards society. He urged players to consider the impact of their actions and choose endorsements wisely, even if it means sacrificing lucrative opportunities.
The former cricketer recalled his decision to forego his salary when he retired midway through the 2018 season of the Indian Premier League. “In 2018, when I stepped down as the captain of the Delhi Capitals, I had given up on three crores. I could have pocketed that money, but I feel I should get only what I deserve and not what I want,” Gambhir said, highlighting the importance of integrity and principles.
Gambhir also pointed out the actions of popular Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar, who apologized to his fans and withdrew advertisements for a similar harmful product. He also commended cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar for categorically refusing to partake in such endorsements, citing his promise to his father never to promote pan masala.
Gambhir urged young players to have the courage to say no if approached to endorse unhealthy products. He emphasized that even if others have done it, one should not follow the trend blindly but rather consider the long-term impact and the example they are setting for future generations.
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“Sachin Tendulkar too was offered 20-30 crores, but he had said no to pan masala ads as he had promised his father he would never. That is why he is a role model,” Gambhir added, highlighting Tendulkar’s unwavering commitment to his principles.
Gautam Gambhir’s strong stance against cricketers endorsing harmful products reminds sports personalities about their responsibility as role models and the influence they hold over impressionable minds. It calls for greater consciousness and integrity in their choices, both on and off the field.
