What stands out is the contrast in remuneration: while Tamannaah was reportedly offered a whopping ₹6.2 crore for a two-year endorsement, Anil Kumble has agreed to take on the ambassadorial role for the forest department sans any fee.

This stark difference in treatment and compensation has also sparked widespread discussion and debate online.

Announcing this move, forest minister Eshwar B Khandre said that the department has decided to appoint the internationally acclaimed leg-spinner Anil Kumble as its ambassador.

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Deep love for wildlife

Speaking at a press conference held at the Vidhana Soudha’s conference hall—marking the completion of two years since he took oath as a minister—Khandre said that Kumble, who had previously served as vice-president of the Karnataka Wildlife Board, enjoys global recognition and will now work to spread awareness among the public about forest conservation, afforestation, tree protection, and wildlife preservation.

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Minister Khandre also emphasised Kumble’s deep love for wildlife and forests. He confirmed that Kumble agreed to take on the ambassadorial role entirely free of cost due to his passion for the cause.

Kumble is passionate about wildlife photography and conservation. Though, he’s famous for his talents and achievements in cricket, he is also an avid wildlife photographer. He often shares his photographs on platforms like Instagram and Twitter.

The former Indian cricketer fell in love with wildlife during a tour to South Africa in 1996. He had visited one of the national parks and was captivated for life.

(This story first appeared in The Federal Karnataka)