Will she or won't she? Hollywood actress and Mask of Zorro star Catherine Zeta-Jones could be among millions making a sprint to the holy waters of Allahabad during the Maha Kumbh Mela, following in the footsteps of Sharon Stone, Steven Seagal, Madonna and Pierce Brosnan.
Expectations that Zeta-Jones would visit the 55-day mela are high after the actress said in a statement to a newswire in Los Angeles a week ago that her next India trip would be for Kumbh Mela 2013, along with husband Michael Douglas.
"Personally, I've been going through a tough period in my life. What I require for my mental health and well-being is some peace and tranquillity. I swear by yoga, which I believe has its roots in India. So, I really want to visit India again specifically during the Kumbh Mela and I am told it is a sight to behold for the eyes and soul," the actress's statement said.
Most celebrities, such as Stone, have visited the Kumbh Mela in secrecy. Tour operators, such as Cox & Kings, are believed to be handling a list of "premium guests" but would not divulge details.
An organising committee official told HT that although Zeta-Jones was expected, they have no confirmation. However, as is the practice, she would not be given any special facilities, except for a dedicated call-centre for all foreign visitors.
{{/usCountry}}An organising committee official told HT that although Zeta-Jones was expected, they have no confirmation. However, as is the practice, she would not be given any special facilities, except for a dedicated call-centre for all foreign visitors.
{{/usCountry}}Celebrities need to have their own arrangements for security and stay, Allahabad SSP Mohit Aggarwal said. "We have no orders for any special reception,” he said.