Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has hit out at critics of Danny Boyle's Oscar nominated rags to riches drama "Slumdog Millionaire", saying it shows India in a "visually appealing way".

Contactmusic.com reports that Shah Rukh, who was earlier offered the role of the quizmaster in the film, played by Anil Kapoor, has defended the film.

Shah Rukh said: "I think it's really nice that the film will open doors for people to understand that there is a lot of visual appeal to India.

"I hear a lot of people saying that India has been shown in bad light. But then my logic to everyone is that why is it that somebody comes from outside and makes a film like 'Gandhi' and 'Slumdog Millionaire' and it becomes internationally acceptable. All we can say about it is that it is showing India in a poor light."

The multi award-winning film has repeatedly come under fire since its release, with campaigners in India slamming the movie's controversial title, claiming the use of the word 'dog' is insulting to those living in slums.

The filmmaker was also accused of under paying the Indian child artistes despite director Boyle vigorously denying the claims, insisting the studio paid to ensure the welfare of the actors.