SRK lures Akon into the world of Bollywood

The news of the Senegalese-American R&B star Akon recording a song for Anubhav Sinha’s Ra.One has been doing the rounds for the past two days. On Wednesday,the singer confirmed it in the presence of Shah Rukh Khan and Kareena Kapoor,the lead actors in the movie. Akon was greeted in traditional Indian style with Kapoor doing the tika and Khan showering petals on him. And it was only fitting that Akon sang his hit number Beautiful and dedicated it to the Kapoor girl.

Akon has also sung a few lines in Hindi. “I have heard a few Bollywood songs,some of which are really nice. In this number,I have tried to sing a few Hindi lines,” says Akon,who has also composed the song. And will he be part of the video that features Khan and Kapoor? “Of course. He will be coming down to India for a brief shoot that we will be doing with him,” says Khan. “And hopefully,Kareena will teach him some nice Bollywood moves.”

Akon,who has been flown down to India on Khan’s request was all praise,for the actor. “I have followed Shah Rukh’s work very closely and I love the way he entertains the audience,” says Akon. Khan in turn said he was touched by Akon’s gesture to sing for his film. “I first met him in New York. When I asked him if he would sing for our film,he immediately obliged. There is no business deal here. Unlike me,Akon has been very gracious to do this. I charge for everything,” quipped Khan,who plays the superhero G1 in the film.

About coming back to India for a concert,Akon says,“The world tour will happen soon. And India is definitely one of the hot spots. I am from Africa and I love performing there. But now India is going to be my next big pit stop because of the love,adulation and admiration that I have received here.”