Audiences will no longer have the pleasure of watching Akshay Kumar’s iconic anti-smoking advertisement, lovingly known as the Nandu ad, play before movies in theaters. In a surprising turn of events, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has decided to remove this ad, which has been a familiar sight for the past six years. While the exact reasons for this sudden decision remain shrouded in mystery, it has been reported that a new anti-tobacco advertisement has taken its place.
As per a report from Bollywood Hungama, this change came into effect in September 2024, with the absence of the Nandu ad notably felt before the screening of Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video. The call to retire the ad featuring Akshay Kumar was made just last month, with the replacement emphasizing the immediate benefits of quitting tobacco in just 20 minutes.
The Nandu ad stars actor Ajay Pal, a talented individual hailing from Madhya Pradesh, alongside the charismatic Akshay Kumar. Ajay, who made a brief but memorable appearance in Akshay’s 2018 film Padman, caught the eye of many while selling cotton to Akshay’s character. This led to his involvement in the anti-smoking campaign, as reported by Midday. Ajay also had a part to play in Akshay’s 2023 movie Selfie.
For those who may not be familiar, the ad features Akshay Kumar and Ajay Singh Pal portraying the characters of Nandu. It depicts Nandu indulging in a cigarette while discussing his wife’s hygiene concerns. Initially aired during the release of Akshay’s 2018 film Gold, the ad showcases Akshay urging Nandu to kick the habit of smoking and instead utilize that money to purchase sanitary pads for his wife, effectively echoing the message of Padman.
In 2012, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, mandated that films featuring smoking scenes must incorporate anti-smoking advertisements both before the movie commences and after the intermission.
Turning our attention to Akshay Kumar’s professional endeavors, the versatile actor has an exciting array of films lined up, including Jolly LLB 3, Welcome to the Jungle, Bhoot Bangla, Skyforce, Housefull 5, Hera Pheri 3, and more. His most recent cameo was in Stree 2, alongside Rajkummar Rao and Shraddha Kapoor. With an impressive filmography and a commitment to social causes, Akshay Kumar continues to captivate audiences both on and off the screen.
