Slumdog Kids Make a Triumphant Return Home

When Azharuddin Mohammed Ismail, 10, and Rubina Ali, 9, arrived at the Mumbai International Airport, they were swarmed by thousands of adoring fans as police fought to create a path through the crowds. Despite the frenetic energy of the welcoming masses, the two child stars reveled in the attention, receiving the adulation with a mix of experienced composure and charming exuberance.

The Associated Press reported that the pair, along with other child actors from the film, arrived back home on Thursday to cheering crowds that lined the trash-filled streets of the Mumbai slum where they were discovered.

Azharuddin, better known as Azhar to his friends, danced for the crowds while Rubina was carried, smiling and waving on her father's shoulders. Azhar happily fielded questions from reporters, proclaiming, "Eight awards! So, our movie has become such a super-hit." He also added the moving admission of "saying so much – if I say more, I will start crying with tears of happiness."

British director Danny Boyle said he wanted Rubina and Azhar to get an education rather than a jackpot. Moviemakers have secured places for both in a nonprofit, English-language school for underprivileged children in Mumbai. Their families will be given small monthly stipends, and trust funds were set up that Rubina and Azhar can access upon graduation.

The film's two Indian Oscar winners were also met with great enthusiasm as crowds showered them with flower petals. A. R. Rahman, who won Oscars for musical score and best song, said, "They (the fans) almost killed me with love." Sound engineer Resul Pookutty said, "I never expected something like this. This is history being made."