Shar Rukh says India can be world entertainment hub

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan said on Saturday that India, with its rich cultural offerings, could become a global centre for entertainment.

"We have a nearly 100-year-old industry. We have a fantastic culture. We can be a global entertainment portal," Khan told a gathering of politicians and top businessmen in New Delhi.

Strongly defending the lavish song-and-dance sequences Bollywood films that some criticise as being too frothy, the actor said the industry should push Indian culture rather than seeking acknowledgement from Hollywood.

"I don't think by acting in a Hollywood film, I will become a better actor," the 41-year-old actor said to applause when asked why Indian actors should not be seen more often in Hollywood films.

"I think songs and dance have to be a part of our cinema," Khan said.

Khan, however, said that it was "commendable" that other Indian actors, such as former Miss World Aishwarya Rai, were acting in Hollywood films.

Rai is due to star in a "Pink Panther" film along with US actor Steve Martin slated for release in 2009.

Khan, who acted in this year's blockbuster Chak De! India (Come On, India) about a surprise win by a women's hockey team, said he hoped his next film "Om Shanti Om" -- a Hindu chant -- which opens next month would do even better.

AFP