During the formal presentation proceedings of the 72nd National Film Awards, President Droupadi Murmu issued a poignant public appeal urging mainstream film stars, cultural icons, and media personalities to exercise strong social responsibility by refraining from endorsing health-hazardous commercial products. Addressing award recipients, government dignitaries, and film federation leaders at the ceremonial gathering, President Murmu highlighted the profound cultural influence that celebrated artists exert over impressionable youth and broader public audiences. The President emphasized that while cinema serves as a vital mirror of societal progress and artistic expression, public figures carry an ethical obligation to ensure that their commercial brand partnerships do not promote addictive or harmful consumer substances. Film industry bodies, health advocates, and social commentators commended the Presidential advisory, noting that aligning celebrity endorsements with public welfare standards reinforces civic trust and promotes health-conscious choices across diverse demographic segments nationwide.Presidential Address Highlights Celebrity Social Responsibility

During the presentation of the 72nd National Film Awards at Ekta Nagar (Kevadia), Gujarat, President Droupadi Murmu called upon the country's leading cinematic figures to use their public platform responsibly. Highlighting the deep psychological impact actors have on millions of fans—particularly young people and children—the President explicitly asked celebrities to avoid endorsing products that pose risks to human health. The remarks come amid heightened public and regulatory scrutiny over surrogate advertisements for mouth fresheners and cardamoms linked to pan masala brands.

Overview: Key Highlights from President Murmu's National Film Awards Address

Key Address PillarCore Message & Official Appeal
Health EndorsementsUrged celebrities to reject advertisements for health-harming products
Youth Influence"A true star is the one who spreads light, not darkness."
Industry Labor RightsDemand for dignity, fair compensation, & social security for low-tier crew
Gender BalanceMandating female representation across all regional National Film Award juries
Cultural HeritageCommended regional films for reflecting the diversity of Indian traditions

"A True Star Spreads Light, Not Darkness"

Emphasizing the moral weight carried by fame, President Murmu noted that fans actively emulate the choices, habits, and lifestyles of screen icons. "When successful artists speak about the benefits of a disciplined lifestyle, millions of children and young people emulate them," she stated during her address. "I urge popular artists not to endorse products that are harmful to people's health. A true star is the one who spreads light, not darkness."

The call to action arrives at a time when health advocates and regulatory bodies, including state Food and Drug Administrations (FDAs), have issued notices regarding surrogate advertising campaigns for tobacco and pan masala-adjacent goods.

Championing Jury Diversity and Crew Welfare

Beyond public health messaging, President Murmu focused on structural changes needed within the creative economy. Reiterating appeals from previous ceremonies, she urged production houses and studio leadership to guarantee social security, respect, and fair working conditions for assistants, technicians, spot-boys, and struggling background artists who form the backbone of film production.

Additionally, noting the high number of female awardees at the 72nd edition, the President insisted that women must be guaranteed representation across every regional and central award jury to ensure a balanced, holistic perspective in evaluating cinematic artistic merit.