‘Indian’ Colonel Sanders unveils KFC’s Zinger at Madame Tussauds

New Delhi, Aug 24 (IANS) In a historic break from tradition, a larger-than-life KFC Zinger, aka 'The original celebrity burger', has been unveiled at the Madame Tussauds wax museum here, quite appropriately by the 'Indian Colonel Sanders', complete in a white suit, black string tie, a mop of blonde hair and blonde goatee.

"Just like a true celeb, the Zinger has real fans, has made it to headlines and is truly an original; one of a kind celeb burger. And a place among leading celebrities and iconic personalities is just what it deserves," said a statement from Madame Tussauds.

Just as the actual Zinger burger is handmade with care at the KFC restaurant, the Zinger at Madame Tussauds Delhi was crafted with similar precision, the statement added.

Madame Tussauds has hitherto featured only celebrities or characters made famous by movies and television. How did the burger find its way to the museum?

"While many have wondered if the Zinger is a piece of art or a celeb. All debates are now put to rest with the Zinger asserting its celeb status at Madame Tussauds. Surely, this isn't any regular burger. It is the only burger that has travelled to space and has even inspired tattoo artworks for some. In 2018 alone, we sold more than 10 million Zingers in India -- that's like a Zinger each for every person in New Zealand and Singapore," explained Moksh Chopra, Chief Marketing Officer, KFC India.

Last year, KFC India roped in theatre actor Denzil Smith to play the role of Colonel Harland David Sanders, the American businessman who founded Kentucky Fried Chicken (now known as KFC), and also act as the fast food restaurant chain's brand ambassador and mascot.