Bollywood superstar, Akshay Kumar, has just signed his next project, and it is not a new film. The actor’s latest role is as the Canadian Tourism Commission’s (CTC) Ambassador for India. The announcement was made as Akshay hosted a dinner for the Prime Ministers of Canada and India on Sunday, post the G8 and G20 summits in Toronto.
The star of over 180 films, who has enjoyed a strong relationship with Canada since his first visit in 1995, will act as the CTC’s Ambassador for India until summer 2012. The partnership will involve familiarization trips across Canada, which will be captured for local and Indian media in video and blog posts.
“I am very honored and privileged to have been asked to represent the CTC as their Ambassador for India. Canada is my second home and I am truly proud to encourage and promote Canadian tourism in India. I have an extremely strong connection to this great land and its warm people”, says Akshay.
He went on to speak about the similarities both democracies share and their contribution to society. “Canada recognizes and respects the true potential and contribution of every citizen, no matter what ethnic background they have. India, the world’s largest democracy, prides itself in many similar values.”
The star has spent a considerable amount of time in Canada and supports many Canadian causes, including the Trillium Health Centre in Toronto. In May 2008, Kumar received an honorary Doctorate of Laws degree from the University of Windsor for his exceptional work in the film industry and his philanthropic endeavors.
Akshay has also filmed extensively in Canada with both Bewafaa and Khiladiyon Ka Khiladi being shot there, along with Humko Deewana Kar Gaye and 8 x 10 Tasveer, which were both filmed in Calgary. More recently the star shot for Anees Bazmee’s film Thank You, co-starring Sonam Kapoor.
At the dinner on Sunday, Akshay dedicated Singh is Kinng 2 to Dr. Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of the Republic of India. Currently in pre-production, the follow up to the 2008 blockbuster sees earlier locations of Egypt and Australia replaced by Canada in the sequel.
