No less than Rs 1.5 crore a day, which works out to a cool 15 crores for the 10-day shoot!

To promote tourism in its state, Assam Government has roped in Priyanka Chopra as the face of their ‘Awesome Assam’ campaign. But do you know how much PC is said to have pocketed for the campaign? Also Read - [Pics] Priyanka Chopra switched from traditional to chic while touring Assam and we are floored!

No less than Rs 1.5 crore a day, which works out to a cool `15 crores for the 10-day shoot! Also Read - Priyanka Chopra faces new controversy for charging Rs 1.5 crore a day to promote Assam

That obviously hasn’t gone down well with the natives there, especially as the state is reeling under floods and also facing a financial crisis. Two months ago, the governor had said there is enormous stress on the state exchequer and is not in a position to satisfy its budgetary demands. “It can barely meet its basic commitments like salaries, pension,” he said.

There is a debate on about, whether celebrities who are roped in to become the face of a state or a country, should be doing it free of cost? Amitabh Bachchan didn’t charge a penny to promote Gujarat and neither did Aamir Khan who was the face of Incredible India. But then actresses don’t make as much money as actors.

Maybe if PC’s bank balance was anywhere close to that of Bachchan or Khan, she too could have done service for the state government. That being said, why should celebs be expected to do anything for free? When they are out of work, or retired will the state or national government offer them homes and pensions? And if the actor’s fee seems too pricey then the client can always say no. No one is holding them at gunpoint. PCis justified in charging what she feels she deserves.