Moushumi Chatterjee lights the lamp at the inauguration of the National Handloom Expo on Tuesday as chief minister Tarun Gogoi looks on. Picture by S.H. Patgiri

Dec. 28: She came, she saw and was conquered. Bollywood actor Moushumi Chatterjee making a guest appearance at the National Handloom Expo, that began today at Judges Field, was floored by the sheer elegance and enigma of the mekhela chadors.

So enchanted was she by the mekhela chadors, that Moushumi even agreed to be its brand ambassador in the national and international market.

Draped in Assam?s traditional attire, the yesteryear celluloid sweetheart addressed the gathering in Bengali. ?This is my first visit to this beautiful state, of which I had heard so many romantic tales in my childhood. All my life I have listened to Assamese songs and watched the famed Bihu and drank Assam?s exquisite tea. But never before did I have an opportunity to visit Assam. Today was very special. Just one day in the city, and it has removed from my mind so many misconceptions the Mumbai film industry harbours about Assam.?

Earlier, chief minister Tarun Gogoi and the minister for sericulture, handloom and textiles Hemo Prova Saikia, along with the Bollywood star, lit the inaugural lamp.

Later, the balika badhu said: ?During a recent ramp show I was asked to wear a designer attire. I was quite surprised to discover today that it was actually the famous Assam muga mekhela chador. It is unfortunate how fashion designers try to pass off traditional dresses like mekhelas as their own creations. I have urged Mr Gogoi to set up Artfed showrooms and boutiques across India and market muga mekhela chadors and other traditional handloom products directly.?

The actor, who agreed to promote Assamese handloom products, added, ?Assam handloom products are so rich in designs and texture, but they have not got the fame that products from south India enjoy.?