'Aamir, stop endorsing Coke'

'Aamir, stop endorsing Coke'
Monday, August 14, 2006 16:39 IST
By Santa Banta News Network
College students in Chennai shouted slogans and displayed protest placards to actor Aamir Khan, urging him to withdraw his endorsement of Coca-Cola.

The students, members of Youth for Social Change, said they were raising this issue with Khan, because he was an actor with a "conscience".

Jennie Dolly Antony and Meghna Sukumar shouted slogans at the Kamarajar Arangam auditorium Saturday night, "Aamir, stop endorsing coke", and "Ganda matlab Coca-Cola". They also held up a placard that read: "Aamir, set an example: Boycott Coke."

Within seconds, the security personnel grabbed the placards and tried to throw the girls out. Other students from Youth for Social Change seated elsewhere in the auditorium then began shouting slogans. They also held up anti-Coke placards, urging the superstar to stop endorsing the cola.

The protest took place at an awards ceremony to commemorate the death anniversary of Gollapudi Srinivas, a director who was tragically killed when he was 26. Khan was the chief guest at the function.

"We do not want to disrupt the awards ceremony. We wish to not just mourn the dead but also fight for the living," a student said.

"Coca-Cola is bad for health. And celebrity endorsers like Aamir Khan and Madhavan are acting irresponsibly by using their larger-than-life screen image to peddle these dangerous drinks to unsuspecting youth who think it is cool to consume junk food," another student added.

The Centre for Science and Environment in a study found that the colas had dangerously high pesticide content, an argument that has been contested by the cola giants who say they meet all industry and health standards.

The students were hopeful that Aamir Khan will withdraw his endorsement. "We are not going after other celebrities. They have never claimed to have a conscience. Aamir has lent his support for the Narmada Bachao Andolan and for the victims of the Bhopal gas tragedy," a student said.

Not wanting to interrupt the awards ceremony, the students had attempted to seek an appointment with Khan. But their request was turned down.

"Left with no choice we had to raise the issue inside the hall," a student said. The group is now planning a nationwide campaign to pressurise celebrities to stop endorsing Coke, Pepsi and other unhealthy products.
Varun Dhawan Unveils First Poster of 'Nain Matakka' Featuring Keerthy Suresh!

Varun Dhawan's upcoming film Baby John is already creating waves in the entertainment world. The latest buzz surrounds the highly anticipated track "Nain Matakka," and the excitement reached new heights when Varun shared the

Friday, November 22, 2024
'Agni' Trailer Unveiled: A Tribute to Firefighters' Bravery and Sacrifice!

The much-anticipated trailer for Agni, directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Rahul Dholakia, was released on Thursday, offering a gripping look into the world of firefighters, their bravery, and the sacrifices they make to protect

Friday, November 22, 2024
Sara Ali Khan Shares Fun BTS Moments from Ad Shoot, Invites Fans to Let Their Spirits Soar!

Bollywood actress Sara Ali Khan recently took to Instagram to share a delightful behind-the-scenes (BTS) glimpse from her latest advertisement shoot, revealing her cheerful mood and creative spirit. In a playful and heartwarming post, Sara shared a video

Friday, November 22, 2024
Kartik Aaryan Enjoys Quality Time with 'Sea, Sand, and Sun' at IFFI Goa!

Bollywood heartthrob Kartik Aaryan, who is currently in Goa for the prestigious International Film Festival of India (IFFI) and Filmazaar, took a moment to unwind and connect with nature. The actor shared a series of serene pictures on his Instagram, showcasing

Friday, November 22, 2024
Shehnaaz Gill Starts Shooting for Punjabi Film: A New Journey Begins!

Actress and social media sensation Shehnaaz Gill is all set to embark on a new chapter in her career, as she commences shooting for her upcoming Punjabi film. The actress shared her excitement with her fans on Instagram, marking this milestone

Friday, November 22, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT