ED probes 29 celebrities over online betting endorsements: Reports

The list involves names like Vijay Devarkonda, Rana Duggubati, Prakash Raj, Harsha Sai and Sreemukhi amongst others

by e4m Staff
Published: Jul 10, 2025 3:39 PM | 1 min read

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has reportedly launched a money laundering probe against 29 celebrities including renowned actors, influencers, YouTubers and TV personalities. The list involves names like Vijay Devarkonda, Rana Duggubati, Prakash Raj, Harsha Sai and Sreemukhi amongst others, according to media reports. The probe, conducted under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), stems from multiple FIRs being filed in cities like Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam.

The authority alleges that these individuals were promoting betting platforms that are suspected to be generating illicit funds through large-scale promotional campaigns disguised as gaming content.

While several celebrities have denied wrongdoing, saying they believed they were promoting gaming apps, few have claimed that they had terminated contracts over ethical concerns. However, complaints from victims continue to surface including an individual claiming a ₹3 crore loss, suggesting endorsements leading to serious financial harm.

The ED is now examining the financial records, endorsement contracts, social media campaigns, summoning the accused to track “proceeds of crime”. Although the accused have not yet been charged with any crimes, their involvement has brought attention to the hazy distinction between unlawful advertising and influencer marketing.

This case demonstrates the increasing difficulties faced by Indian regulators in enforcing rules pertaining to digital gaming.