Dhruv Rathee Questions Shah Rukh Khan’s Endorsements Amid Billionaire Status Debate

YouTuber and social commentator Dhruv Rathee has ignited discussion online after posting a video and X thread questioning Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan’s endorsement choices, particularly for products such as paan masala, despite the actor’s reported net worth of $1.4 billion (around ₹12,400 crore).

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Wealth and Responsibility in the Spotlight

Rathee highlighted Khan’s financial milestone to frame his argument, noting the difficulty most people have in grasping the scale of such wealth. He raised concerns about the logic behind continuing endorsements of potentially harmful products, asking whether such deals are necessary given Khan’s already immense fortune.

In the video, Rathee commented: “Isn’t this much money enough? If it is, then what compels you to promote something as harmful as paan masala?” His questions aim to spark reflection on the responsibilities public figures carry, particularly those whose influence reaches millions.

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Impact Beyond Wealth

Rathee went further, urging Khan to consider the broader societal implications: “If the country’s top actor stops promoting harmful products, what impact could that have on the nation?” He suggested that leaders in the public eye have the power to shape consumer behaviour, particularly in India, where celebrity endorsements heavily influence cultural norms.

Rathee also encouraged viewers to amplify his message, asking audiences to participate in the debate about ethical endorsements and the responsibilities that come with fame and influence.

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Celebrity Endorsements Under Scrutiny

This conversation is part of a growing public debate over celebrity endorsements of products linked to health risks. While Khan has long been associated with numerous brands across sectors, Rathee’s critique touches on the ethical dimension of promotion, urging celebrities to weigh their societal impact alongside financial gain.