Suniel Shetty Says No to ₹40 Crore Tobacco Endorsement, Citing Values and Family Legacy

Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty has revealed that he recently declined a ₹40 crore endorsement offer for a tobacco product, choosing personal values over a lucrative payday. In an interview with entertainment portal Peeping Moon, the actor said the decision was non-negotiable for him, regardless of the money involved.

According to Shetty, the offer was substantial, but the product itself conflicted with his beliefs. He recalled telling those who approached him that financial gain could not persuade him to associate with something he did not stand for.

“Money Can’t Decide Everything”

Shetty said he was fully aware of how significant the amount was and admitted that he could have used the money. However, he maintained that endorsing tobacco was something he could not justify to himself.

More importantly, he linked the decision to the legacy he wants to leave for his children, actors Athiya Shetty and Ahan Shetty. He said he would never do anything that could leave a moral “blemish” on them, adding that his firm stance has ensured that such offers no longer come his way.

A Personal Turning Point After His Father’s Death

The actor also reflected on a deeply personal phase of his life — the period surrounding his father’s illness and death. Shetty shared that his father had been unwell for several years before passing away in 2017, during which time he stepped away almost entirely from his acting career to care for him.

That extended break from films, he said, made his eventual return challenging. After being away from the industry for six to seven years, he struggled with self-doubt, questioning both his relevance and his command over his craft.

Reinvention After the Pandemic

Shetty said the COVID-19 pandemic marked another important shift in his outlook. During that time, he began focusing inward — physically, mentally and emotionally. He spoke about committing himself to training, reading and self-improvement, which gradually rebuilt his confidence.

That phase, he said, helped him reach a point where he no longer felt the need for external validation. The transformation allowed him to approach both life and work with greater clarity and self-assurance.

Gratitude for Continued Support

Despite his long absence from films, Shetty credited his fans and the media for keeping him relevant during his hiatus. He said their continued interest and support played a key role in his ability to return to the industry with confidence.

The actor’s comments have resonated widely, particularly at a time when celebrity endorsements are closely scrutinised. His refusal of a high-value tobacco deal has sparked conversations about responsibility, influence and the role of personal ethics in public life.