At an Anti-Tobacco Meet held on Sunday, Health Minister Mr. Anbumani Ramdoss, mentioned that a certain scene in Azhagiya Tamil Magan had disturbed him.

The scene shows Vijay light a cigarette right under a ‘No Smoking’ sign at a railway station. When asked to a pay a fine for his misdeed, he does so but does not put out the cigarette right away. Instead, he finishes his smoke, and only then walks away. Given the actor’s popularity, the Minister said that he should refrain from such portrayal. Enthusiastic Vijay fans may consider this a cool new style, and may be tempted to do the same. Hence the minister requested Vijay not to enact such scenes, and to completely avoid smoking on screen.

Our movie heroes need to necessarily understand that they are youth icons and have the power to influence youngsters. In an interview, actor Ajith has mentioned that if not a great role model, he at least does not want to be a bad one and has hence tried to avoid smoking scenes on screen as far as possible. Similarly, in view of Mr. Anbumani Ramdoss’ request, actor Vijay has announced that he will hereafter not smoke onscreen and will try his best to not play roles of smokers.

It is indeed nice when constructive criticism is seen in the right light!