Indian actress Rashmika Mandanna has found herself in hot water after featuring in an advertisement for a popular burger brand, where she promoted a spicy chicken burger despite being a vegetarian. Fans were quick to point out that she had given several interviews in the past where she claimed she was a vegetarian, and was even the brand ambassador and investor of a vegan beauty brand. Social media users took to Twitter and Instagram to share their disapproval of Mandanna promoting non-vegetarian food. Content creator Garima Kumar pointed out that comments on the advertisement had been disabled following the controversy.
However, some users defended Mandanna and said that it was just an advertisement and did not necessarily imply that she was a non-vegetarian in real life. “She is only endorsing junk food, she didn’t ask us to go and eat. It’s ultimately our choice. Similarly, it’s their choice which advertisement they want to do,” wrote one user.
This is not the first time a food advertisement featuring a celebrity has caused controversy. In August 2022, Hrithik Roshan starred in a Zomato ad that was later withdrawn and an apology was issued after several social media users criticized the ad for being insensitive to people struggling with eating disorders.
The world of social media can bring about drawbacks for celebrities who often face controversies and debates over various issues, including the food they eat and the brands they promote. Celebrities and brands need to be mindful of their choices and actions as they have a significant impact on their fans and followers.
