Amitabh to be Gujarat’s brand ambassador

Hindi film icon Amitabh Bachchan on Monday accepted the Gujarat government’s offer to be the new “brand ambassador” for the State.

In his letter of acceptance to Chief Minister Narendra Modi, Mr. Bachchan said: “You have very graciously considered my appointment as brand ambassador for Gujarat. I accept the offer with great humility. I hope we will be able to work together for the betterment of Gujarat.”

Mr. Bachchan had volunteered to act as the brand ambassador for the State during his visit to Gandhinagar on January 6 for a special screening of his film “Paa,” for Mr. Modi and other top dignitaries in the State, seeking tax exemption for the film. He was all praise for Mr. Modi and Gujarat, and said he was highly impressed by the development of the State and would like to “lend his voice and face” if the government planned any documentary to showcase the State’s case for development in tourism and other sectors. He had also described Mr. Modi as a “simple man,” unlike a head of state.

A thrilled Mr. Modi followed this up by sending him an offer to act as the State’s brand ambassador which was promptly accepted by Mr. Bachchan.