This Article is From Oct 12, 2015

Here's How Sidharth Malhotra Bonded With the Students in Auckland

Here's How Sidharth Malhotra Bonded With the Students in Auckland

This image was posted on Twitter by Sidharth Malhotra .

Auckland: The moment he said 'Kia Ora' - an informal way of saying 'Hi' in Maori language, and drew its comparison with the Punjabi Ki Ho Riya Hai (what's up?), Bollywood actor Sidharth Malhotra managed to establish a closer connection with around 35 students at the University of Auckland Business School here on October 11.

Sidharth, who has recently been appointed as the Indian ambassador of Tourism New Zealand, shared his experiences about his journey in the film industry and his love and concern for rugby. (Also Read: Sidharth Malhotra Named as Tourism New Zealand's Indian Ambassador)

Sidharth made his debut in Bollywood with 2012's Student Of the Year. He has featured in movies such as Hasee Toh Phasee, Ek Villain and Brothers.

"I have studied at the Delhi University, and it's nothing like this," said Sidharth, who spent five years in Mumbai before his first film released.

"I was 22 when I first shifted to Mumbai for a film. When it didn't work out, I decided to hang in there. Then I took up work as an assistant director in My Name Is Khan. That was the best film school I could go to. Every day, every film and every scene is challenging," added Sidharth.

He believes in the idea of reinventing to break monotony, and said that he has enjoyed his journey in the industry so far. He also said that he is a big fan of Shah Rukh Khan.

"Shah Rukh sir has a knack of helping people. I'm his big fan," he said.

Sidharth himself is quite popular. While he's a widely followed Indian actor of his generation, his popularity could especially be gauged with the way he was received at the Auckland Airport, where some of his fans cheered for him.

Students at the University Of Auckland Business School were also quite enthusiastic about Sidharth's visit.

Among the students were two Indian women rugby players, who are studying here on the New Zealand Prime Minister's Sports Scholarship.

Sidharth, who is himself an avid rugby player, expressed his love for All Blacks, the New Zealand national rugby team. He also rued the fact that India is not doing enough to push rugby as a sport.

Sidharth also spoke about his love for tennis, football, swimming and other outdoor activities. He also suggested students who were interested in films to visit Mumbai to make a name for themselves.

As a tourism ambassador of New Zealand, Sidharth is here on an 8-day trip to understand the country's culture and the myriad experiences which follow.
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