This image was posted on Instagram by Mandy Moore .
Hollywood actress Mandy Moore, who visited India as part of her work as a global goodwill ambassador of NGO PSI, said that she would love to visit the country again.
"My impression of India just has been great. People have been so kind, gracious, loving and colourful. The women are spirited and confident. I came with an open mind, and am leaving with the best possible impression," Mandy told IANS in an interview here.
"It is my first trip to India, and it won't be my last! I feel like I only got to see only a small cross-section of such an enormous country -- so I would love to come back not just in the capacity of an ambassador, but also as a tourist," added Mandy.
Mandy's smile and eyes reflected the joy she had experienced in her week-long trip to India.
"We have had so much (food)! We had
kebabs in Lucknow, and they were so delicious. Some incredible desserts such as
kulfi. I have a real sweet tooth, so it really satisfied that," said Mandy.(Also Read:
When in Bihar: Mandy Moore Samples Litti Chokha in Patna)
"Most places that I've travelled to as an ambassador, the food was not necessarily the highlight. But India has completely changed that. Food was a total highlight on this trip. There's so much more to see and so much more food to eat too," she added.
Mandy also visited Patna, Lucknow and Delhi to understand how PSI and its partners have been working to improve the health and rights of girls and women by providing comprehensive health solutions that range from access to toilets, screening for cervical cancer, improved access to contraception, and ensuring that women and girls can live lives free from gender-based violence.
The actress, who has also featured in films such as
The Princess Diaries and
A Walk To Remember is quite engaged in her role as a PSI ambassador, which she undertook in 2008.
"It's a role I take as seriously as the other facets of my job and career. I believe my role is to be a listener. I'm so fortunate to be listening to stories of these girls and women, hear their needs, figure out their messages and then amplify those messages in whatever way I can," added Mandy, who was impressed with the extensive programmes of PSI in the country.
"When women will be provided with basic health services, when they'll have access to improved sanitation, and their lives are free of violence, their world will be a better place," said Mandy.