Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar carries Olympic flame in Toronto

TORONTO - Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar on Thursday participated in the Olympic Torch Relay and carried the Olympic flame here.

Akshay is an international torchbearer with the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay, presented by Coca-Cola and RBC and supported by the Government of Canada.

On this special occasion, Akshay Kumar said: “I am honoured and privileged to have been selected as an official torchbearer for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay.”

“Running with the Olympic Flame in Toronto gives me an exceptional opportunity to represent India and all of my fans. The flame is a symbol of freedom, peace and global friendship, and I would like to thank Canada for this honour and recognition,” Akshay Kumar added.

Akshay calls Canada his home away from home. He supports various Canadian charities, including the Trillium Health Centre in Toronto.

“Akshay Kumar is a global star, a citizen of the world and a friend to Canada. Akshay’s fans will join him in person or virtually as he runs along the world’s longest street-Yonge St. His presence and exuberance will inspire the Olympic spirit in all of us and draw the world’s attention to this magical moment in Toronto,” said Michele McKenzie, President and CEO of the Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC) on this occasion. (ANI)