Taj Mahal on a London visit with Shilpa,

Taj Mahal on a London visit with Shilpa, Dravid

London: It's not quite the wonder of wonders but a six meter replica of the Taj Mahal is on a London visit this summer. The marvel in marble is in the UK to launch the three-month festival 'India Now'.

But the Taj isn't the only celebrity at the event, Team India Captain Rahul Dravid took some time off ahead of the first Test against England to make an appearance.

"It's probably coincidental that I am here. I am here as a sports ambassador and it's great to see an event that is happening around the cricket tour," Dravid said.

Also present at the event was London's best-loved Indian celebrity these days, actor Shilpa Shetty.

"I am really happy to here as an Indian ambassador. It is a huge honour to inaugurate an event like this," Shilpa said.

But the day belonged to the Taj, floating down the Thames, with the London landmarks looking on.

And for those who think what the big fuss is all about consider this – Indians account for 6 per cent of London's population, the largest minority group in the city. India is the second largest investor in London after the US and over 2,00,000 Indians visited London last year and spent more than Japanese tourists.

And if that is not all, last year over 40 Indian films were shot in London.

"The London community is really excited about 'India Now'. It's going to be a fun festival and everyone loves Indian food," CEO of London Unlimited, James Bidwell said.

The main highlights of the event include a three-week festival at Trafalgar Square, premiere of Shah Rukh Khan's film Chak De India and a shopping festival in London's Regent Street.

With over 1,500 events, this is the biggest festival of its kind in London. So, while India celebrates its 60th year of Independence, London celebrates too.