Akshay Kumar flew in to a screaming crowd of about 5,000 people in Vancouver, Canada, when he performed at the Pacific National Exhibition on August 2.
Those, who were present, told this reporter that the crowds went wild, running to the stage and surrounding the actor. About 100 security guards had to be added to keep the crowd in check.
Even though the Punjabi Day celebration event was announced several weeks before, they sold few tickets. But once Studio 18 -- the distributors of Singh Is Kinng -- got Akshay to make an appearance, almost 5,000 tickets were sold within 48 hours.
Akshay's popularity in Vancouver is beyond comprehension, many people say. Several newspapers, including the CTV, reported that Akshay's fan base has even exceeded the likes of Hollywood stars like Brad Pitt and Tom Cruise.
'Without a Sardarni, there is no king'
Sat Sri akal, Vancouver! How are you all?" Akshay asked the crowds, as he stood on the PNE stage, as chants of 'Akshay! Akshay' ran through the air."I am very excited to be here with all of you today and celebrate the launch of my film Singh is Kinng. Who knows who is the real king? You, you and you! As long as we have a positive attitude, work hard and believe in what you do, you are a king. Who's stronger than all of you kings? Your Sardarnis! Without a Sardarni, there is no king!" Akshay went on.
While thanking the crowds for their love and support, Akshay's sense of humour remained with him through the show. "You are all great, what power in your voices, what energy! All of you are truly Kings."
Akshay also used the platform to spread the message of anti-piracy. "I request each of you not to promote piracy. Not for my film nor of any of my colleagues' films. All of us in our industry request this and encourage you to go and watch the film."
'I encourage you to go and see Singh is Kinng'
Even as Akshay performed on stage, a team of bhangra dancers joined him during the Snoop Dogg number.But the increase in his fan base has not changed Akshay's humility. When you meet him, he is just an ordinary guy, with no hint of arrogance.
"I encourage you to go and see Singh is Kinng," said Akshay before leaving the PNE, stopping at the Fairmont Hotel for a quick press conference and then flying off to return to Los Angeles, where he is shooting Sajid Nadiadwala's Kambakth Ishq. The film sees appearances from Sylvester Stallone, Denise Richards and Brandon Routh.
Singh Is Kinng will release globally on August 8.
http://specials.rediff.com/movies/2008/aug/06slide1.htm
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Anupamaa
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