Who all are celebrities as brand ambassadors?

The appointment of Indian tennis star Sania Mirza as brand ambassador of Telangana caught up with controversy after BJP leader Musheerabad K Laxman questioned the prudence of the State Government in appointing for the coveted job. Laxman said what makes Sania a Hyderabadi or a Telanganite. He said her father migrated from Maharashtra to Hyderabad and now she is married to Pakistani cricketer.

Earlier on Tueday, Telangana CM K Chandrasekhar Rao while handing over a letter of appointment and a cheque of Rs. one crore to 27-year- old Sania, said she will promote the new State's interest in India and abroad.

Different States appointing celebrities as their brand ambassadors is gaining momentum. It is often assumed that the celebrities due to their star value and fan following will be taken seriously by the people. A number of States have already roped in celebrities for their endorsement. Here are few celebrities who are appointed as brand ambassadors by different States.

Amitabh Bachchan: Gujarat

We have seen Big B promoting various tourist destinations of Gujarat in number of advertisements. His campaign has paid off wonderfully. According to reports, the ad compaign featuring Amitabh Bachchan were responsible for increasing tourism revenues of the State.

Shah Rukh Khan: West Bengal

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamta Banerjee has roped in Shah Rukh Khan to promote the State. He is the owner of IPL team Kolkata Knight Riders that won the fifth edition of IPL in 2012. SRK, who is a known figure in Bengal was seen in a promotional video for the State.

Saina Nehwal: Andhra Pradesh

Badminton star Saina Nehwal agreed to take out time from her busy playing schedule to be the brand ambassador for Andhra Pradesh tourism. Sania, who won a bronze medal the 2012 London Olympics, replaced tennis player Sania Mirza to be the brand ambassador for Andhra Pradesh.

Aamir Khan: Incredible India

In November 2011, Superstar Aamir Khan was appointed as national ambassador of UNICEF.
The actor-producer, known for his films like Taare Zammen Par, Ghajini, 3 Idiots and Dhobi Ghat, supports UNICEF's work in promoting child rights and nutrition of children under two years.

Prachi Desai: Goa

In an attempt to perhaps appeal the youth, who are the main visitors of Goa, young actress Prachi Desai was selected to be the state's brand ambassador.

Preity Zinta: Himachal Pradesh

Preity Zinta was roped in as the brand ambassador of Himachal Pradesh to promote tourism and environment.