On World No Tobacco Day , actor Eijaz Khan has come forward with a bold and heartfelt message, calling attention to the growing vaping trend among youth. Known for his impactful performances in films like Jawan and Dhoom Dhaam, as well as critically acclaimed web series City of Dreams and Adhrishyam, Eijaz used the occasion to address what he calls a “new ridiculousness” sweeping across younger generations—vaping.

“I want to talk about a new trend that I see everywhere—especially among young adults and even underage individuals: this new ridiculousness called vaping,” said Eijaz in a candid statement.

Expressing deep concern, Eijaz pointed out how the vaping industry appears to be targeting a younger customer base through flashy design and sweet flavors. “Vapes come in different, bright colors. They are very easy to carry around. And apparently, it’s widely accepted to vape in places where smoking is not allowed. I've seen that happen a number of times,” he said.

But beyond the aesthetics, Eijaz was adamant about one core message: vaping is not safe. “It’s not better than smoking. It’s the same poison, just packaged differently,” he warned. Drawing on insights from friends in the pharmaceutical and medical fields, Eijaz highlighted that vapes contain dangerous substances including heavy metals, carcinogens, and lung-scarring chemicals.

“The only difference is that vapes don’t smell like an ashtray. They come in bright colors and sweet flavors, which is why people pretend it’s okay—but it’s not.”

He emphasized the psychological and neurological risks as well, noting how vaping manipulates the brain's reward system in young users. “The real danger is that vaping now looks like a fashion accessory. When kids get hooked early, their brains start chasing the next hit like an addict,” he said. “Luckily, when I was young, we had sports. We had discipline. That’s what we chased for a reward—not this.”

Known for portraying intense, layered characters across genres, Eijaz acknowledged his platform and the influence that comes with it—but with humility. “I’m not trying to influence the youth, and I don’t see myself as an idol or icon. I see myself as a human being, someone who’s capable of making mistakes. But I also know I have a social responsibility,” he shared.

Eijaz revealed that he has made a personal and public decision to never smoke, both for his health and the message it sends. “We don’t need more flavored lies in society,” he concluded. “Even in my career now, I’m chasing the truth. And I think it’s our responsibility, as public personalities, to show what real coolness is—owning your choices and actually having a choice. Not being a slave to addiction.”

On a day dedicated to raising awareness of the harms of tobacco and nicotine use, Eijaz Khan’s words strike a timely and powerful chord, encouraging both the public and the industry to rethink what we glamorize—and at what cost.