India’s film industry celebrated Thursday as "Slumdog Millionaire" lived up to its rags-to-riches theme with 10 Oscar nominations, though impoverished protesters complained its title was insulting.
The film, set amid the poverty of Mumbai’s notorious slums, continued its surprise run of success since it swept four categories at the Golden Globes, including the prize for best drama.
The film got the second highest number of nominations, including best director for Danny Boyle, best picture and two of the three song slots.
The joy wasn’t felt by some, however, as about two dozen slum residents protested the film outside Kapoor’s Mumbai home saying the title of the movie was an insult.
On Wednesday the cast and director spoke to the media in New Delhi about the film, and the controversy it has sparked.
"The film is going to be a terrific inspiration to kids around India. It’s a feel-good film, a film of hope," said Kapoor, who grew up in a Mumbai slum.
He dismissed claims that the word "slumdog" was offensive. "Children from the slums are actually called much worse names."