Greatest welcome ever in India: D.J. Caruso

Mumbai, Jan 12 (IANS) Hollywood director D.J. Caruso, who is here for the premiere of his forthcoming film "xXx: Return of Xander Cage", was overwhelmed by the "greatest welcome".

Caruso, along with Hollywood star Vin Diesel and Indian actress Deepika Padukone were welcomed with dhol, 'tutari' and 'tilak'. They arrived to a typical desi fanfare of women dressed in traditional Marathi nauvari (nine-yard) saris and yellow turbans.

"The greatest welcome ever! 'XXX India Premiere. Wow and a blessing to go with it," Caruso tweeted on Monday.

The mania was overwhelming for the director as he also shared on Twitter an image featuring an enthusiastic cameraman who is seen trying to capture Deepika and Diesel from his bike.

"Deepika Padukone and Vin Diesel chased by photographers on streets of Mumbai. I am in car behind them," Caruso tweeted.

Diesel's two-day India trip is packed with fan meets, music and drama. He is promoting "xXx: Return of Xander Cage", which is releasing in India on Friday -- before anywhere else in the world.

He has a packed itinerary full of fan interactions, a glitzy red carpet gala and a star-studded premiere.

According to sources, plans are in place to give Diesel a "splendid taste of India" -- and the start has been in tune with that.

The actors, along with other members of the film's cast and crew, have been on an extensive worldwide promotional spree to promote the film. They visited London and Mexico before coming to India.

The movie is a new instalment in the "xXX" series after the 2002 film "xXx" and the 2005 entertainer "xXx: State of the Union". It also stars Ruby Rose, Samuel L Jackson, Donnie Yen and Tony Jaa.