Pallavi Purohit on World No Tobacco Day: “Smoking Should Never Be Glamourised”
On the occasion of World No Tobacco Day, actress Pallavi Purohit, who is currently winning hearts in Do Duniya Ek Dil on Colors TV, opens up about her views on smoking, the importance of awareness, and why public figures have a crucial role to play in influencing society.
In an era where celebrities are often under scrutiny for their choices both on and off screen, Pallavi Purohit believes there is a clear distinction between being transparent and unintentionally glamorising harmful habits.
Pallavi Purohit Draws a Clear Line Between Openness and Normalising Smoking
“I think we’ve reached a stage where people are more comfortable being themselves and don’t feel the need to hide every aspect of their lives. Openness is good. But openness about smoking is different from normalising it,” Pallavi Purohit says.
While acknowledging that smoking remains a personal choice, the actress stresses that its consequences cannot be overlooked. “The reality is, smoking is a personal choice, and as adults people have the right to make their own choices. “But it’s equally important to acknowledge the well-established health consequences. It’s addictive and it has serious health consequences. I’ve seen families losing people to it.”
Why the Actress Believes Public Figures Must Be Mindful of Their Influence
Pallavi Purohit feels that celebrities must be mindful of the influence they have on younger audiences. “Being transparent and being inspirational are two very different things, and it’s important not to blur that line. Young people look up to us. If we make it look cool, they’ll copy it without understanding the cost. I’d rather use my voice to say — be honest about who you are, but also be smart about what you do to your body. You only get one.”
When asked whether she would portray a smoker on screen, Pallavi Purohit says authenticity is important, but so is context. “I would only take it up if it was genuinely essential to the storyline and not portrayed in a way that glamorises smoking I’m an actor, not a tobacco advocate. If my character is a chain-smoker and that’s core to who they are, I’ll portray it honestly. But I’ll also push for context. We can show consequences, or avoid close-up glamour shots of it. The goal is realism, not promotion. That line matters to me.”
The actress also weighed in on anti-tobacco disclaimers and advertisements that frequently appear before films and digital content.
The Importance of Anti-Tobacco Campaigns and Awareness
“Look, nobody likes being told the same thing twice — the ads are definitely irritating. But as an actor, I love a captive audience, and as a human, I’d rather they’re alive to watch my next film,” Pallavi Purohit says with a laugh. “Cancer is worse than 30 seconds of irritation. Honestly, it’s the cheapest health insurance you’ll ever get. So yeah, play the ads.”
Beyond fear-based messaging, Pallavi Purohit believes awareness campaigns should offer practical support to those trying to quit. “Awareness ads shouldn’t just say smoking causes cancer — people already know that. They should talk about addiction, stress, and why quitting is so difficult. Show the relapse, the craving at 11 pm, the awkward first week without smoke breaks. Then show the small wins — better breath, money saved, the first morning without coughing.”
Would She Play a Smoker On Screen? Pallavi Shares Her Perspective
Pallavi Purohit concludes by urging campaigns to focus on solutions rather than fear alone. “Trying to quit shouldn’t be portrayed as a heroic act—it should be seen as a healthy and natural step toward a better life. Show helpline numbers, apps, and free support systems. Fear stops people. Hope and a plan help them start.”
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