Mumbai: India’s advertising and marketing sector saw a sharp rise in celebrity-led campaigns during May 2026, with brands increasingly relying on film stars and athletes to influence consumer behavior.
Marketing experts said digital platforms, social media and short-video applications have amplified the impact of celebrity endorsements across younger audiences. Major consumer brands launched new campaigns featuring Bollywood actors, cricketers and regional stars during the weekend.
Industry reports indicated that celebrities with strong online engagement are commanding significantly higher endorsement fees compared to previous years. Luxury brands, fintech firms and smartphone companies emerged among the biggest advertisers.
Analysts believe celebrity branding remains highly effective in India because entertainment and sports personalities enjoy strong public influence across multiple demographics.
The advertising industry is also witnessing a shift toward performance-based contracts where brand payments are linked to online engagement and campaign reach.
Experts expect influencer marketing and AI-generated promotional content to increasingly complement traditional celebrity advertising models in the future.