McDonald’s India – North and East has announced young actor Sara Arjun as its new brand ambassador. The collaboration marks a special full-circle moment for the actor, who first appeared in a McDonald’s television commercial as a child many years ago.
Sara is back with the brand in a new role, reconnecting with fans who remember her from before. This move shows how McDonald’s blends nostalgia with fresh ideas to connect with today’s younger crowd.
Along with the announcement, the company has launched a new television campaign introducing the Buddy Meal, a value meal designed for friends who enjoy sharing food. The meal starts at ₹119 and includes two burgers, customers can choose between the popular McAloo Tikki or the Veg Surprise Burger, along with two Coke beverages and one medium order of fries.
The new advertisement recreates the well-known “girlfriend–boyfriend” banter from McDonald’s earlier campaign. In the ad, Sara humorously notes that modern relationships can sometimes feel too demanding, citing expectations like grand romantic gestures and “princess treatment.” The tone changes when her friend simply says he wants a McAloo Tikki, reminding viewers that happiness can come from simple moments.
The ad ends with the line, “Shukar hai McDonald’s Buddy Meal for 2 hai… starts at just ₹119,” as the two friends enjoy their meal together. The campaign’s message, “Khao Meal, Baat Ke,” invites people to share food and good conversation with friends.
Speaking about the partnership, Anant Agarwal, Vice Chairman of MMG Group and Connaught Plaza Restaurants Limited (CPRL), said the brand has always focused on creating moments that bring people together. According to him, Sara’s return to McDonald’s reflects the emotional connection many customers have built with the brand over the years.
Sara Arjun also shared that McDonald’s has been a special part of her life since childhood. She described the collaboration as nostalgic and meaningful, adding that the Buddy Meal celebrates the joy of sharing food and laughter with friends.
Through this campaign, McDonald’s India, North and East aims to reconnect with long-time customers while also appealing to a new generation of diners. The Buddy Meal will be available for a limited time at McDonald’s restaurants across North and East India, including dine-in, takeaway, drive-thru, the McDonald’s mobile app, and major food delivery platforms.