A growing number of celebrities from the film and sports fileds have expressed solidarity with students protesting against alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, calling for a transparent education system and urging authorities to listen to the concerns of the country's youth.
Actor Kareena Kapoor said children deserve a system where "merit is real, effort is rewarded, and every child starts on equal footing." In an Instagram post, she said education gives children confidence and hope, but that trust is shaken when honesty and hard work appear to go unrewarded. "When an entire generation speaks with one voice about its own future, listening isn't a courtesy we extend. It's an obligation we owe them," she wrote.
Actor Ananya Panday praised Gen Z for refusing to accept the status quo, saying young people are not demanding shortcuts but fairness. Sara Ali Khan described the students' determination as inspiring and said their courage should be met with empathy and justice.
Author and columnist Twinkle Khanna also backed the protesters, saying she was proud of young Indians who continued to dissent despite facing tear gas and baton charges. Actor Varun Dhawan urged authorities to engage with students' concerns and work towards a fair and transparent resolution while stressing that peaceful protest is a democratic right.
Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar also issued a statement supporting the students. Recalling the values taught by his late father, he said, "Failure is okay, cheating is not. Never take shortcuts." Tendulkar said students' disappointment over repeated paper leaks was understandable and called on society to ensure that young people never feel their hard work has gone in vain.
In Kerala, Malayalam legendary superstar Mammootty extended his support through a Facebook post, writing, "The youth are the treasure of our nation. Listen to their voices. Protect them. Empower them." While the post received widespread appreciation, it also sparked criticism from some social media users over the timing of his response.
Other personalities, including Vismaya Mohanlal, Tovino Thomas and Ranjini Haridas, also faced online backlash after voicing support for the agitation.
The demonstrations have drawn support from students, political parties and an increasing number of public figures, making the issue one of the country's most widely discussed public movements in recent weeks.