President Droupadi Murmu has urged popular film artists not to endorse products that could be harmful to health, highlighting the influence celebrities have on children and young people.
Murmu made the remarks while presenting the 72nd National Film Awards for 2024 at a ceremony in Ekta Nagar, Kevadia, Gujarat, on September 22. She said popular film artists have significant influence over the public, particularly younger audiences, and that their statements and actions can affect the choices of millions of people.
The President said successful artists who speak about the benefits of a disciplined lifestyle can influence children and young people to follow healthier habits. She therefore appealed to popular celebrities to refrain from endorsing substances that are harmful to health.
“Star wahi hai jo roshni phailaye, andhera nahi,” Murmu said in her address, according to the official transcript.
The remarks came during an event celebrating achievements across Indian cinema. The President congratulated the award winners and also highlighted the collaborative nature of filmmaking, urging recipients to recognise the contributions of technicians, assistants and other members of their teams.
Murmu also called for greater respect and social security for workers, small artists, assistants and others working in the creative economy. She emphasised the importance of women's participation in film award juries to bring a broader perspective to the selection process.
Veteran actor Anant Nag received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2024 at the ceremony, recognising his contribution to Indian cinema. The 72nd National Film Awards recognised achievements across India's diverse film industries and languages.