King Khan shakes a leg to popular number

Toronto: Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan's first public appearance in Toronto may have been to launch a new Bollywood theatrical production spearheaded by choreographer Shiamak Davar. But his appearance was far more dramatic than any musical stage show.

Breaking into a dance from his hit Chaiya Chaiya from Dil Se, Khan put all fears about his dancing capabilities to rest and humoured the hundreds of frenzied fans pushed against the barricades to catch a glimpse of the actor.

He was tipped to perform at the grand finale of the International Indian Film Awards on June 25, but his knee-injury made it a doubtful proposition.

Painful

"It's quite painful to dance, but as always I will try my best to dance and entertain my fans in Toronto — anyways, it was not like I am the best dancer anyway," said Khan, who has been nominated in the Best Actor category for his role in My Name Is Khan.

"It's a wonderful feeling because My Name Is Khan is a special film and it will always remain close to my heart," he told reporters. He is competing with the likes Salman Khan (Dabangg) and Ranbir Kapoor (Rajneeti). Meanwhile, his choreographer for IIFA Davar told Gulf News no steps have been modified to make it easier for Khan.

"No matter what he says, he is one of the best dancers in Bollywood, no other star can match his charisma. That's why he is so popular all around the world," said Davar. True to his word, ardent Khan fans turned up at the hotel lobby as early as 6am to stand guard.

Ultimate

"I have waited forever for this moment. Bollywood doesn't come to Toronto often but getting Shah Rukh is the ultimate," said Shruti Tantra, a Khan devotee.

Later at a press conference, Khan launched the Las Vegas style theatrical musical Jhumroo and Here I Am. His first day in Toronto was spent visiting the Mayor's office and the Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty.