Odisha Consumer Court Takes Up Unique Case Against Salman Khan, Hrithik Roshan Over Soft Drink Ad; Complainant Seeks ₹1 Compensation
Kalahandi Consumer Court Hears Complaint Against Salman, Hrithik and PepsiCo: A unique and thought-provoking legal case has emerged from Odisha’s Kalahandi district, drawing national attention and sparking debate over celebrity endorsements and misleading advertisements. The Kalahandi District Consumer Court is hearing a complaint against Bollywood superstars Salman Khan and Hrithik Roshan, soft drink giant PepsiCo, and the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI).
The case was filed by Khariar resident Deepak Dubey, who alleged that a television advertisement featuring Salman Khan and Hrithik Roshan made misleading claims about a cold drink providing extraordinary strength and agility. According to the petition, Dubey’s son watched the advertisement and was inspired to believe that consuming the soft drink would help him perform better in a school race.
Confident after drinking the beverage, the child participated in the race but failed to win. The loss reportedly left him mentally distressed and disappointed. Dubey claims that the exaggerated promises shown in the celebrity-backed advertisement gave his son false hope, resulting in emotional harm.
Unique Case: ₹1 Compensation Sought in Salman-Hrithik Soft Drink Ad Row
What makes the case especially striking is the compensation sought. Instead of demanding a large monetary settlement, Dubey has asked for damages of just ₹1. He stated that his intention is not financial gain, but to highlight the dangers of misleading advertisements and hold celebrities accountable for the claims they promote.
The consumer court has taken cognisance of the complaint and begun proceedings. The first hearing was held on December 22, and the next hearing is scheduled for January 19. Advocate Anish Patnaik is representing Salman Khan, while advocate Kunal Behera is appearing on behalf of Hrithik Roshan and the company.
As the case goes viral on social media, it has reignited a broader discussion on celebrity responsibility, ethical advertising, and the influence of endorsements on children and young viewers. Many are now questioning whether stars should be legally accountable for the messages conveyed through the products they endorse.
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