In the subcontinent, where everyone is obsessed with the idea of “fairer skin,” it is not surprising that several Bollywood actors take fat cheques by endorsing fairness products, including the likes of John Abraham, Shahid Kapoor, Sonam Kapoor and Katrina Kaif who have promoted products that claim to help lighten one’s skin tone, according to local media sources.
Where many celebrities are going all out to promote these products, one celebrity joined the list of actors who have taken a stand against endorsing fairness products.
Queen star Kangana Ranaut turned down an offer that was paying her Rs 2 crores to become the face of a fairness product.
“Ever since I was a kid, I have never understood the concept of fairness. Especially, in such a case, as a celebrity, what kind of an example would I be setting for younger people? I have no regrets about turning this offer down. As a public figure, I have responsibilities,” Kangana said.
Chitrangada Singh, Ranbir Kapoor and Esha Gupta are some of the other actors who have also turned down similar offers in the past.
“My sister (Rangoli Ranaut) is dusky, yet beautiful. If I go ahead and be part of this campaign, then, in a way, I would be insulting her. If I can’t do that to my sister, then how can I do it to the entire nation?” she added.
“It’s about my value system. If other stars are doing it, it’s highly irresponsible behaviour on their part. But if they feel it is correct, I can’t change their opinion. I strongly feel that people should be responsible for their actions.”
This article originally appeared in the Hindustan Times.