Explained: Why Akshay Kumar stepped down as tobacco brand ambassador?

Mumbai, Apr 21: After receiving backlash from fans over his association with a leading pan masala manufacturing company, Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar has apologized for endorsing a tobacco brand and announced that he will 'step back' as its brand ambassador.

The Bollywood superstar issued a statement on Twitter in which he said, "I am sorry. I would like to apologise to you, all my fans and well-wishers. Your reaction over the past few days has deeply affected me. While I have not and will not endorse tobacco, I respect the outpouring of your feelings in light of my association with Vimal Elaichi. With all humility, I step back."

The apology from the leading Bollywood actor came after he was massively trolled for his association with the leading pan masala company. He also announced that he would contribute the entire endorsement fee towards a worthy cause.

"I have decided to contribute the entire endorsement fee towards a worthy cause. The brand might continue airing the ads till the legal duration of the contract that is binding upon me, but I promise to be extremely mindful in making my future choices. In return I shall forever continue to ask for your love and wishes," Akshay Kumar said.

For the unversed, the controversy erupted after the actor was seen sharing screen space with other Bollywood superstars - Ajay Devgn and Shah Rukh Khan - for the popular 'elaichi pan masala' commercial.

Soon after the ad was seen by fans and the audience, they started trolling the trio. Fans bashed Akshay Kumar for his "dual standards".