MUMBAI: After severe backlash on social media over the Vimal Elaichi advertisement, Akshay Kumar has now decided to step down as a brand ambassador of tobacco.
The actor in a recent Instagram post issued an apology note to all his well-wishers and fans explaining his endorsement of tobacco products.
Akshay was featured in a new advertisement for Vimal Elaichi in collaboration with Shah Rukh Khan and Ajay Devgan but his fans are completely disappointed with this.
The actor has received massive trolls and criticism for promoting the cardamom products of the pan masala brand that also sells tobacco products.
Fans being unhappy with Akshay's association with the ad, also shared old videos of the actor where he was seen speaking against consuming tobacco products and alcohol.
In the apology note by Akshay he wrote that fans' reactions over the past few days have deeply affected him so with all humility, he steps back.
He added that he respects the outpouring of fans' feelings for his association with Vimal Elaichi and says 'while I have not will not endorse tobacco'.
Akshay further wrote that he has decided to contribute the entire endorsement money towards a worthy cause. He said that the brand would continue airing the advertisement till the legal duration of the contract binding upon him.
Akshay promised to be extremely mindful in making future choices and in return he would forever continue to ask for the love and wishes from fans as written in the note.
In the recent Vimal Elaici ad, Bollywood actors Shah Rukh Khan and Ajay Devgan who were earlier seen promoting the product welcomed Akshay Kumar to the Vimal universe.
All the three actors come together chewing the cardamom (elaichi) and striking vimal salute.
Twitter users shared several memes, posts and jokes over the ad criticizing Akshay Kumar and the memes were widely shared on the internet.
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