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Dr. Akshay Kumar

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He has starred in more than 120 films, has trained at martial arts since he was a child, and performs his own action-hero stunts.

But when Bollywood heartthrob Akshay Kumar received his newest title -- Dr. -- he felt weak in the knees. "Wow," Kumar said Friday night at a crowded and excited convocation ceremony at Assumption University chapel. "This really is one of the most nerve-racking days of my life. My hands are shaking."

Kumar was awarded an Assumption University honorary doctor of laws degree for his film work and for his philanthropy, which includes raising money for the Trillium Health Care Centre in Mississauga and the Vancouver Children's Hospital, as well as serving as the Indian ambassador for the Special Olympics.

Kumar's arrival at Assumption University, part of the University of Windsor campus, befit the mega-stardom he enjoys back home. Windsor police held back fans crushing in for a glimpse as the Tom Cruise of India whisked past in a maroon convocation robe and hat. About 300 people, more than half Kumar fans who cheered his every move, filled the Assumption University chapel for the ceremony, while perhaps another 75 were turned away.

The honour was not lost on Kumar, who was rather softspoken and appeared humbled by his honorary doctorate degree. "I don't think even an Oscar would mean as much as this means to me," he said. Kumar recounted his struggles in college and how he once asked God for help. "I realized God doesn't work that way, so I cheated," he joked, drawing huge laughs.

He went on to praise his parents, promote the idea of a strong family, and pray for strength for all. "Indians believe that our success lies at the feet of our parents," he said. "It's not I who should be receiving this award, but my parents." Aneri Chokshi, 18, who was born in India but now lives in Windsor and studies pre-pharmacy at Wayne State University, could barely contain her glee as the action hero strolled past. "I feel amazing," she said after hugging a smiling Kumar. "I had this feeling in my heart. Oh, my God, oh, my God."

Besides Kumar, Carl Cohen, a lawyer with Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone, and Aubrey Dan, president of the Dancap Group of Companies, also received honorary doctorate of laws degrees. Barbara Cunningham, Donald Hull, Stuart Selby and Anne Snowden received Rev. Carlisle Lebel Awards, while Michelle O'Rourke graduated with a master of arts in pastoral ministry.

Assumption University president Rev. Paul Rennick, who spent time in India when he was younger, thanked the Indian community for bestowing a certain spirituality on the world. Rennick also noted that a Hindu and two Jewish recipients received honorary degrees from a Catholic institution -- which he hopes symbolizes the kind of Catholicism that Assumption University represents, one that believes in inclusiveness for all.

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