Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt [Images], who got a chance to experience travelling in India the desi way in an autorickshaw, have expressed their gratitude to the people of the country for their hospitality.

"We deeply appreciate the warm welcome we have received from the people of Pune, India, where we are filming A Mighty Heart," Jolie was quoted by People magazine, as saying.

"We are excited to have this chance for our children to learn about India's wonderful culture and history," she added.

Pitt and Jolie arrived in the city on October 4 to film scenes for A Mighty Heart, which stars Jolie as Mariane Pearl, the widow of US journalist Daniel Pearl, who was murdered by Islamic extremists in Pakistan four years ago.

However, Jolie expressed her regrets that they couldn't film the movie in Pakistan because of security concerns.

"I am disappointed that we could not shoot the film in Pakistan, a country that I love and have visited thrice. We look forward to visiting Pakistan soon," she said.

Meanwhile, a non-government organisation in Pune has sought the couple's support in the campaign against child trafficking.

Trying to capitalise on the image of Hollywood couple, who have adopted two children with different backgrounds, Anjali Kate and Nakul Kate of the NGO Sakhee, in a letter to the couple, said they knew about their contribution towards children's rights and also that they are adoptive parents.

'We have seen photos in newspapers of you and your son taking a ride in an autorickshaw. We are child activists and working on the issue of child trafficking taking place in the name of adoption. In our campaign, we expect strong support from you,' the letter said.

A lot of irregularities are taking place in the name of adoption. People flout rules and regulations for adoptions besides instances of child trafficking under the guise of adoption have also increased, Anjali said. "Hence, we thought of seeking their help. A statement by them can create an awareness about the good causes of adoption -- how it helps both the child and the parents, the best way to go about it and not to indulge in child trafficking," she added.

With inputs from ANI and PTI