Actress and model Poonam Pandey’s attempt to raise awareness about cervical cancer has backfired, resulting in a massive social media backlash. Partnering with Hauterfly and portraying her own death in a publicity stunt, Pandey’s initiative took an unexpected and controversial turn.
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Hauterfly, in collaboration with Poonam Pandey, embarked on a mission to shed light on cervical cancer, believing that insufficient attention was being given to the disease. The shocking revelation of Poonam Pandey’s demise quickly garnered condolences on social media, leaving fans perplexed, given that she had appeared healthy just days before.
Pandey, in an attempt to draw attention to the cause, posted a video on her Instagram account, revealing that her death was a fabricated scenario. She explained, “I’m alive. I didn’t die because of Cervical Cancer. Unfortunately, I cannot say that about hundreds and thousands of women who have lost their lives because of Cervical Cancer.” Pandey emphasized the preventability of cervical cancer, urging people to undergo necessary tests and receive the HPV vaccine. While a few supported the initiative, a majority of celebrities and fans criticized Pandey for her perceived insensitivity and extreme measures to initiate a conversation.
The aftermath of Pandey’s revelation witnessed a wave of condemnation from internet users and various celebrities. Terms like “ridiculous,” “disgraceful,” and “a new low” echoed across social media platforms, reflecting the general sentiment of disappointment. Ram Gopal Varma stood as one of the few in favor, but the overwhelming response leaned towards criticism. Critics argued that Pandey’s unconventional approach overshadowed the intended message, with some deeming it a distasteful publicity stunt that exploited the sensitivity of a serious health issue.
In a consequential development, pharmaceutical giant MSD took swift action and severed all ties with Schbang, the agency responsible for the ill-fated campaign. The fallout from the controversy extended beyond social media, affecting professional collaborations in the industry. MSD’s decision underscores the gravity of the situation, emphasizing the need for responsible and ethical practices, even in the pursuit of noble causes.