New Delhi, (IANS) Reacting to the issue raised by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) over a Rupa Frontline advertisement featuring actor Ranveer Singh thrashing a shark, the brand’s spokesperson said that the visuals were not intended to offend anyone, and added that a disclaimer would soon be attached to the commercial.
The recent advertisement garnered negative response due to visuals showing Ranveer taking a dive into an ocean to save a girl from a shark and beating up a shark to portray his masculinity.
“This is to clarify that the shark shown in the latest Rupa commercial featuring Ranveer Singh is a rubber toy, no animal was used in the shoot. It is not our intention to hurt anyone’s sentiment. We will be adding a disclaimer to the ad to this effect,” said Mukesh Agarwal, whole-time director, Rupa & Co. Ltd. brand’s spokesperson, in a statement.
While condemning the advertisement, the animal rights organisation raised concerns and said it plans to take the matter forward by writing to the actor and the brand.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Poorva Joshipura, PETA India CEO, said: “PETA will be writing to Rupa Frontline and Ranveer Singh to share our concerns on behalf of sharks and today’s socially aware youth.”