The Hope Foundation announced Hollywood actor and world famous dramatist Jeremy Irons as their patron and brand ambassador.

A press meet was organized to announce this association. The event was graced by Jeremy Irons, Anik Dutta, Maureen Forrest, Founder-Director of The Hope Foundation and Geeta Venkadakrishnan, Director, Hope Kolkata Foundation.

An interactive session was organized where the underprivileged children of The Hope Foundation interacted with Anik Dutta and Jeremy Irons.

Speaking at the occasion, Jeremy Irons said “It is important for one to be happy and not run after success solely. It is important to have a set of good friends with whom you can share your happiness and sadness too. Fame can last for a lifetime for some or it can last for a lesser time for some others. Hence having people who love and care for you is the biggest achievement in your life”.

The actor while interacting with the kids also highlighted on the fact that becoming an actor is not a bed of roses always. One also has to deal with rejections and periods when there will be no work available. If one can deal with both sides of the profession, only then should one enter the world of acting.

Speaking about environmental issues, the actor mentioned that we all must do our bit for the environment. Only then will we be able to strike a balance to the environment.

The actor who was on his first visit to Kolkata mentioned that though the city has its share of problems but the undaunted spirit of the city is what sets it apart from the other cities.

Priyanka Dutta