Suniel Shetty Breaks Silence On Being Dragged Into Ajay Devgn, Akshay Kumar’s Tobacco Controversy: “A Lot Happens In The Film Industry, I Stay Away From It”

Over the last couple of months, several actors – including Ajay Devgn, Shah Rukh Khan and Akshay Kumar, have been at the receiving end owing to them promoting tobacco products. While not an ambassador for such products, actor Suniel Shetty was recently tagged in a backlash tweet. He has now finally opened up about the controversy and here’s what he has to say.

For those who don’t know, a Twitter user recently wrongly tagged Suniel instead of Devgn while slamming Ajay, SRK and Akshay for promoting a tobacco brand. The user, while sharing a picture of hoarding of a tobacco brand with the three above mentioned actors wrote, “I have seen so many ads on this highway that I feel like having some tobacco. Hey #GutkaKingsofIndia @iamsrk @akshaykumar @SunielVShetty you’re kids has to feel shame on you to lead nation in wrong way. Don’t lead India to cancer nation stupids.”

At a recent real estate event in Mumbai, Suniel Shetty was asked about this tweet. As reported by Hindustan Times, while talking about whether he consumes tobacco and the promotion of such substances, the Hera Pheri actor said, “As far as tobacco goes, I have never had it in my life. People tell me I am 60 but I am not old yet, this is the reason. People also drink alcohol, they may even live longer than me.” He added, “It is said that tobacco and alcohol sell, therefore those need advertising. I think, those of us who do not want to use it, must refrain from advertising as well. A lot happens in the film industry, I stay away from it.”