SEBI's Proposed Definition of "Celebrity": A Quiet Step Towards the AI Era
Published: 1 July 2026 By Nayakanti Prashant 3rd Gen Banker & Citizen Lobbyist – Bengaluru Advocating Digital Transactions Day (April 11) Introduction On 23 June 2026, SEBI released a Consultation Paper on the Common Advertisement Code (CAC) for Specified SEBI Regulated Entities , inviting public comments until 14 July 2026 . Among its key proposals are a unified advertisement framework, post-issuance reporting in place of mandatory prior approvals , and a common regulatory architecture across multiple SEBI-regulated entities. While these proposals have understandably attracted attention, another proposal—tucked away in Section 7 (Proposed Common Advertisement Code) —deserves equal attention. It is the proposed definition of " Celebrity ." This proposed definition opens up lots of possibilities and is very forward looking. Beyond Film Stars and Sports Icons Clause 7(2) proposes a broad definition of "Celebrity." It includes well-r...