Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; November 10, 2017)

As he showed off his Urdu skills saying “My mehbooba and I are delighted to be back in India,” Prince Charles bowled India over during the last leg of his now-concluded Commonwealth Tour. While the crème de la crème of Delhi played the perfect hosts to the Prince of Wales and Camilla Parker Bowles, Duchess of Cornwall, on Wednesday, Shilpa Shetty met the royal couple at the British High Commission yesterday.

Shetty, who was the only Bollywood actor at the event, says interacting with the royal couple was an enriching experience. “It was wonderful to see his enthusiasm and love for India,” she says.

Shetty, who works extensively with the British Asian Trust, was present to discuss prospects of better cultural ties between the two nations. The actor added that the couple took keen interest in yoga and tried to learn more about its benefits during their conversation with her. “We spoke at length on yoga and how we could popularise it in the UK. Prince Charles also spoke about extending support to my foundation that champions the cause of girl child education. He was so encouraging of the initiative.”

During his ninth visit to the country, the Prince addressed guests at the British High Commission and hailed the “ sheer diversity” of the Commonwealth. Besides meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, their twoday trip to India also included a visit to Amar Jawan Jyoti, a garden party in honour of Elephant Family — the charity founded by the Duchess’ late brother, and a visit to see underprivileged school children.