Leveraging his super stardom in India to promote Canada as a premier four-season destination in India –Akshay Kumar was recently signed on as the Indian Ambassador of the Canadian Tourism Commission.

"We're thrilled that Akshay Kumar has agreed to be the CTC's Ambassador for India. Having a superstar like Akshay on board to boost Canada's profile within his country will help turn the spotlight on the extra-ordinary experiences that visitors can enjoy here." says Michele McKenzie, president and CEO of the CTC.

The partnership between the two will involve familiarization trips across Canada, which will be captured for local and Indian media in video and blog posts.

Akshay Kumar has amassed a global following and built a reputation as one of India's most trusted bankable and likable entertainers of our time.

His equation with Canada has been longstanding as he was announced Indian Ambassador for the Winter Olympics 2010. He has spent a great deal 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.

Says Akshay Kumar on the occasion, "I am very honoured 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."