Silicon Valley: The city of Los Angeles has honoured tennis pro-turned-producer Ashok Amritraj for his outstanding contribution as a leading Indian producer in the independent and mainstream film industry.

Amritraj, whose latest production 'Bringing Down the House' has so far collected about $ 127 million, received a certificate of appreciation from the city of Los Angeles during the opening ceremony of the Asian Pacific Film Fest in Hollywood last week.

Presenting the award on behalf of Los Angles Mayor James Han, Alexander Kim, Central area director of operations said, "Amritraj serves as a true role model for Asian Pacific Americans who are pursuing careers in film."

Through his work, Amritraj has "enhanced our diverse community and has contributed to the cultural enrichment of this great city", the 'India West' newspaper quoted Kim as saying.

To be recognised as a member of the Asian American creative community by the city of Los Angeles was a "great honour", Amritraj told the paper.

Amritraj, who quit professional tennis in 1983 to take a shot at the entertainment industry, described his 20 years in Hollywood as a "wonderful journey" adding the reality had exceeded all his expectations.

PTI