B-Town supports Salman Khan as India's ambassador at Rio Olympics

MUMBAI: Bollywood celebrities have backed Indian Olympic Association's (IOA) decision to appoint superstar Salman Khan as the goodwill ambassador of the Indian contingent for the Rio Olympics amid controversy over his selection as the face of the games.

Some sports personalities had criticised Salman's appointment, saying IOA should have opted for a sports icon not a Bollywood star as the goodwill ambassador.

Celebrities like Katrina Kaif, Sidharth Malhotra, Karan Johar and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan have supported Salman's involvement with the games.

Johar, whose popular chat show " Koffee with Karan" saw Salman as the first guest on its last season, said, "Whatever he does I think he is the best."



Karan Johar (Image: AP)


Katrina, taking a friendly jibe at her former boyfriend, said, "Salman Khan ko le kay controversy hai, woh naya cheez hai kya? (Is a controversy about Salman a new thing?)"



Katrina Kaif (Image: AFP)


Salman's father had defended his appointment yesterday.

"Salman may not have competed but is an A list swimmer, cyclist and weight lifter. Sportsmen are performing because of sports lovers like us," Salim had said.

When asked about her views on the controversy, Aishwarys said, "I have to say that anyone, who is doing good to represent the country or working or speaking or standing for the betterment of art, music or sports, is wonderful and the person needs to be recognised."

Katrina's "Baar Baar Dekho" co-star Sidharth said he had no clue about the controversy but thinks the jury made the right decision.

"I don't know about the controversy but I think the people who have chosen, have chosen right, but I don't know much about it. I think he (Salman) is a man who is known for his fitness."



Hema Malini (Image: BCCL)


BJP MP and yesteryear actress Hema Malini also supported the decision, saying Salman's popularity is being utilised for a good cause.




Also read: Salman Khan named goodwill ambassador of India's Olympic contingent

Also read: IOA defends Salman Khan's appointment as goodwill ambassador