Bollywood actress Ileana D’Cruz visited Rampur Primary School in Navua yesterday.

The Bollywood actress here till June 11 to explore and promote Fiji to the Indian market.

Surfing and diving are two new activities that Ms D’Cruz will be undertaking in Fiji this week.

Whilst in Fiji, she will be visiting different regions including Savusavu, Nadi, Pacific Harbour, Coral Coast and the Mamanuca Islands.

In anticipation for her trip, Ms D’Cruz said: “I’m looking forward to new adventures and yet another memorable stay in Fiji!”

The well-known Bollywood actress was in Fiji last year as part of a successful Travelogue with Times of India which was done in partnership with Tourism Fiji and Fiji Airways.

Her social media posts drummed up great publicity for Fiji and contributed to a great performance out of the Indian market in 2017.

Minister for Industry, Trade, Tourism, Lands and Mineral Resources, Faiyaz Koya said:“We are fortunate and indeed to have IIeana D’ Cruz here in Fiji with us today and she is no stranger to our shores and has been here three times.

“Following a successful Travelogue that was filmed in Fiji last year in partnership with Times of India, Tourism Fiji and Fiji Airways, the young actress has continued to positively promote Fiji on her social media channels, like Instagram, which has more than eight million followers worldwide,” said Mr Koya

“The actress loved Fiji so much that she promised she’d return to see more of what Fiji has to offer,” he said.She was pleased to see the school students and stressed the importance of education to  them.

Rampur Primary School head teacher Ansuya Chand acknowledged the minister and the famous Bollywood actress at the school which has been a memorable and historic moment and look forward to more visits in future.

Mr Koya said:“The Indian market has potential for long-term sustainable growth and is a strategically important market for Fiji.

“To realise this potential, we have engaged a highly respected star like Ileana with her 8.1 million Instagram followers to be our Brand Ambassador and the face of our marketing and promotional activities in the market.

“We’re excited to welcome Illeana back to Fiji and have a comprehensive marketing and promotional calendar planned to ensure that the Indian market continues to set new records in Fiji.”

The Indian market to Fiji has proven to be a lucrative one, noting significant increases in arrivals over the last five years.

In this regard, Tourism Fiji will continue to work collaboratively with the Fijian Government and other key stakeholders to ensure increased exposure and arrivals from India.

Feedback:  maria.laqeta@fijisun.com.fj