By IANS,
New Delhi : Senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader V.K. Malhotra has suggested that Amitabh Bachchan be made the main ambassador of the Commonwealth Games, slated to be held in October this year.
In a letter to Indian Olympic Association president Suresh Kalmadi Saturday, Malhotra, who is also the Indian Olympic Association senior vice-president and the executive board member of the Games organising committee, said that given the Bollywood superstar’s credentials and star status, he would be the best choice for being the brand ambassador of the international sporting event.
“(The) Commonwealth Games is going to be an important milestone in the history of contemporary India. It will not only showcase our sporting talent but also social and cultural heritage.
“In this regard the appointment of brand ambassador for Commonwealth Games 2010 is going to be very crucial because they will be looked upon as the best and brightest of the country… I suggest Shri Amitabh Bachchan should be appointed as the main brand ambassador of Commonwealth Games. (He) represents best of India’s mid-age generation and is an icon for the youngsters. He was the brand ambassador of 1982 Delhi Asiad and I strongly feel Bachchan should be given this honour again,” he said.
Interestingly, Malhotra’s suggestion comes close on the heels of controversy surrounding Bachchan after he recently attended the inauguration of the Bandra-Worli sea link’s extension. It sparked protests by a section of Congress workers.