On World No-Tobacco Day, actor Aadesh Chaudhary speaks out against the glamorisation of smoking and its influence on youth. He urges for a stronger cultural shift, backed by collective action, to build a healthier, tobacco-free society.
Aadesh Chaudhary, who has been a familiar face on Indian screens through popular serials like Sasural Simar Ka, Diya Aur Baati Hum, and Maitree, and has made impressive strides in the digital world with web projects like Sabse Bada Rupaiya, Chitta Ve, The H Files, and Bhram, is now speaking out on an issue that often goes unnoticed—smoking and its growing normalization in society and media.
As someone who has seen both sides of the entertainment industry—television and OTT—Aadesh feels a growing concern over how smoking is portrayed, especially to younger audiences. Aadesh Chaudhary shares, “Yes, I feel that smoking has become a trend among some groups, especially younger people, as a way to fit in or appear ‘cool’. Social media and on-screen portrayals might contribute to this perception.”
Aadesh Chaudhary also voices his reservations about smoking being used as a visual or character-enhancing element in cinema and web content. He says, “I understand it’s often used for dramatic effect, but it can also glorify smoking and make it seem more acceptable. The ‘smoking is injurious to health’ disclaimer is a step, but it might not be enough to counter the potential impact.”
The actor acknowledges that government-approved awareness campaigns highlighting the harmful effects of tobacco do create an impact. Still, he feels that current efforts could be enhanced to make a deeper and more lasting impact.
Aadesh Chaudhary says, “The videos and advertisements showcasing the harmful effects of tobacco use do leave an impact, but their effectiveness can vary depending on the audience and context. We need more targeted and engaging campaigns to reach different age groups and cultural backgrounds.”
Touching upon the persistent popularity of hookah bars despite awareness efforts and regulatory bans, Aadesh calls for a deeper cultural reset. Aadesh Chaudhary notes, “Hookah bars continue to operate because of a mix of social normalization, lax enforcement, and the perception that hookah is a safer option. That’s a misconception. Stronger cultural messaging is needed to shift this perception at its root.”
As a public figure, Aadesh believes actors and influencers carry a unique responsibility. Aadesh Chaudhary says, “Public figures can play a powerful role in shaping perceptions around smoking. If we actively promote healthy habits and speak out against tobacco use, we can influence a cultural shift—especially among younger people who look up to us.”
Aadesh Chaudhary underscores that meaningful progress is only possible when everyone works together toward the same goal. “A multi-faceted approach is necessary. We need consistent education, creative awareness efforts, and strict enforcement of rules. It’s only when these elements come together that we can build a healthier, tobacco-free environment,” he concludes.
