SRK’s Paan Masala Plug Sparks Dhruv Rathee’s Fiery Roast!
Mumbai, October 16, 2025 – Bollywood’s Badshah Shah Rukh Khan is under fire for his high-profile endorsements of paan masala brands, with popular YouTuber Dhruv Rathee publicly questioning the superstar’s choice amid his newfound billionaire status.
Rathee’s viral video, posted on October 15, dissects SRK’s promotional deals for products like Vimal Elaichi, estimating the actor’s annual earnings from such ads at a staggering Rs 100 crore. “Why promote something harmful when you’re already the richest entertainer?” Rathee probes, highlighting health risks associated with tobacco-laden paan masala and its appeal to youth. The clip, which has amassed over 3 million views in 24 hours, tags SRK directly, urging a response from the King Khan.
This backlash coincides with SRK’s crowning as India’s wealthiest actor on the Hurun India Rich List 2025, boasting a net worth of Rs 12,490 crore ($1.4 billion), surpassing global icons like Taylor Swift. Sources attribute his fortune to Red Chillies Entertainment, Kolkata Knight Riders stakes, and lucrative brand tie-ups, but critics argue such promotions undermine his inspirational image.
SRK’s history with controversial endorsements isn’t new. In a resurfaced 2010 clip, the actor quips, “Don’t stop my revenue,” defending his deals with cold drinks and cigarettes during a media interaction. Responding to similar scrutiny recently, SRK stated, “Ban them if harmful – they generate government revenue,” advocating policy over personal blame. Fans are divided: While some hail his business acumen, others echo Rathee’s call for ethical choices, with #SRKPaanMasala trending on X.
The controversy erupted just days after SRK’s Diwali bash appearances, where he mingled with stars like Hrithik Roshan. Industry insiders note that paan masala ads have long been a Bollywood staple, with Akshay Kumar and Ajay Devgn also involved, but SRK’s global stature amplifies the debate.
As SRK gears up for King with daughter Suhana, this episode tests his off-screen influence. Rathee’s challenge has ignited discussions on celebrity responsibility, with petitions urging bans on such promotions gaining traction. Will the Don deliver a clapback, or let his empire’s roar speak? Bollywood watches with bated breath.