MMTC ropes in Salman, Lara for jewellery promotion

State-owned MMTC, the country's largest importer of gold, has roped in Bollywood stars Lara Dutta and Salman Khan for promoting its 25th edition of gems and jewellery show opening here tomorrow.

While the show, exhibiting and selling the hallmarked gold and diamond jewellery would be inaugurated by Commerce and Industry Minister Anand Sharma, the film stars would do their promotional act on Wednesday.

"Khan will launch gold coins manufactured by MMTC which will be marketed by Shuddi, its retailing joint venture with Gitanjali," company's Chief General Manager, Precious Metals, Preeti Kaur said.

Dutta, who is playing lead female role in film 'Blue' directed by Anthony D’Souza, was also involved in the Suddhi brand of diamond and gold jewellery launched this year.

The gems and jewellery industry, which has witnessed downturn in the global market, is hoping for reversal of fortunes in the domestic market in the ensuing festival season.

MMTC imports about 100 tonnes gold per annum into the country for resale to the jewellers.