Priyanka Chopra top contender for Incredible India, Big B denies being approached

Amitabh Bachchan and Priyanka Chopra

After Aamir Khan was dropped from the Incredible India aka Atulya Bharat campaign following his remarks on intolerance, Amitabh Bachchan and Priyanka Chopra were pegged as the top contenders for the prestigious role.

Now, new reports claim that owing to Chopra’s rising overseas popularity, the ‘Desi Girl’ is alone being considered as the sole ambassador of the national tourism campaign. Big B’s appointment is allegedly kept on hold due to his possible involvement in the Panama Papers’ offshore account controversy.

In response, the senior Bachchan has issued an official statement wherein he has denied being approached to be the face of the campaign. “There have been queries from the media regarding my being Brand Ambassador for ‘Atulya Bharat’. I wish to state that I have not been formally approached for this position. The speculation of the media regarding its discontinuance is, therefore, not relevant as far as I am concerned,” read his statement.

According to sources, her successful TV stint in Hollywood, Oscars appearance and People’s Choice award has made her into an International Icon fit to represent India globally. Roping her will also help change India’s image as an unsafe destination for women.

The Union Tourism Ministry, however, is yet to take a final decision and will make an announcement when a formal appointment is done.