Murmu urges actors against endorsing harmful health products; ‘True star spreads light, not darkness’

President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday (September 22, 2026) urged popular film artists not to endorse products harmful to people's health, saying a “true star” spreads light, not darkness, highlighting the impact of words and actions of celebrities on young minds.

Ms. Murmu distributed the 72nd National Film Awards for 2024 in various categories of cinema at Ekta Nagar (Kevadia), near the Statue of Unity, in a glittering ceremony attended by top talents of the film industry.

"When successful artists speak about the benefits of a disciplined lifestyle, millions of children and young people emulate them. I urge popular artists not to endorse products that are harmful to people's health. A true star is the one who spreads light, not darkness," Ms. Murmu said.

The President also called for greater participation of women on juries selecting films for the National Film Awards.