Anti-China sentiment grows bigger! Celebrities ready to terminate contracts?

The anti-China sentiment in India is growing bigger with every passing day. Reportedly, if the situation worsens, then celebrities said they are ready to terminate their endorsement deals with Chinese brands. In view of the COVID-19 pandemic, advertisement films are being shot at home, however, no celebrity is shooting any ad for Chinese brands. Even for social media campaigns, stars have been advised 'Low Key Appearances' by their brand management teams.

Noteworthy, it is not easy to break any legal contract in the name of anti-China sentiment in India. Reportedly, to terminate contracts, celebrities may take help of Force Majeure clause of the brand endorsement contract. Force Majeure clause means if there is any situation which is beyond the control of celebrities, then the agreement may be cancelled. For eg war, riot, epidemic or any situation which is construed as an Act of God. By means of Force Majeure clause of the brand endorsement contract, celebrities may sever ties with Chinese brands. Force Majeure clause is generally a part of every contract. Moreover, if due to terms and conditions of the brand endorsement contract any celebrity fails to end deal then the stars have to return the amount/fees to the concerned brand.

Important to note here Deepika Padukone and Ranbir Kapoor are associated with Oppo. Aamir Khan is the brand ambassador of VIVO. Katrina Kaif endorses Xiaomi. Ranveer Singh is associated with Redmi. And, Virat Kohli promotes iQoo. Nearly every A-list celebrity has some or the other Chinese brand endorsements in their profile. Reportedly, in future, all the stars will decide the next course of action on their Chinese brand endorsements keeping in mind the nation's sentiment. Till then, wait and watch!

India on Monday had banned 59 apps with Chinese links, including the hugely popular TikTok and UC Browser, for engaging in "activities which are prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, the security of the state and public order". The ban also comes in the backdrop of the current stand-off along the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh with Chinese troops.