McDonald’s India-North & East today announced actor Sara Arjun as its brand ambassador, reflecting the nostalgia of the young star who won the hearts of audiences in McDonald’s television commercials as a child.
Years later, Sarah returns to the brand in a new role, celebrating the joy of sharing a meal and the eternal connection she has grown up with so many customers at McDonald’s. A longtime fan of the brand, she has now also joined McDonald’s as a brand ambassador.
McDonald’s India-North & East appoints Sara Arjun as brand ambassador; Recreates the iconic ad, watch
The collaboration comes to life through the launch of a new TVC introducing Buddy Meals, a value-packed offering designed for friends who love sharing good food and great moments together.
Priced at ₹119, the Buddy Meal comprises two burgers, customers can choose between the iconic McAaloo Tikki with two Cokes and one medium fries or the Veg Surprise, which brings together familiar favorites in a meal meant for two.
The new Buddy Meal film reprises the classic “girlfriend-boyfriend” joke from the original ad, mixing nostalgia with humor. In a playful exchange, Sarah joked about how relationships today have become “much more demanding,” with her friends expecting grand gestures and even “princess treatment.” When his friend admits that all he wants is a McAaloo Tikki, the moment highlights a relatable truth that sometimes, simple pleasures are everything.
The joke ends with a voiceover: “Thankfully there’s McDonald’s Buddy Meal 2… starting at just ₹119.” The film ends with the couple happily sharing the Buddy Meal, reinforcing the campaign’s message of “Khao Meel, Baat Ke” – a celebration of sharing, simplicity and smart value.
Commenting on the association, Anant Agarwal, Vice President, MMG Group and CPRL, said, “At McDonald’s India – North and East, we have always believed in creating moments that bring people together. Sara’s return to McDonald’s is a wonderful reminder of the deep emotional connections that many customers have grown up with. With the Buddy Meal, we are celebrating friendship, nostalgia and the simple joy of sharing a McDonald’s meal together at a great value.”
Sharing her thoughts, actor Sara Arjun said, “McDonald’s has been a special part of my journey since childhood. Coming back to the brand for this campaign feels incredibly nostalgic. Buddy Meal captures the simple joy of sharing food and laughter with friends, and it’s wonderful to be a part of a story that brings back such good memories while creating new ones.”
By bringing back a familiar face from one of its memorable campaigns, McDonald’s India – North and East has reignited many customers’ nostalgia for the brand, while inviting the new generation to create their own moment at McDonald’s.
Available for a limited period at McDonald’s restaurants in North and East India, Buddy Meal can be enjoyed through dine-in, takeaway, drive-thru, the McDonald’s app and leading food delivery platforms.
