Bollywood films are known for their love stories featuring handsome male actors playing the mythical role of knight in shining armor.

In a few weeks, that myth will finally become a reality, as one of Bollywood’s most influential stars will be knighted in Malaysia’s western state of Malacca.

According to government officials, the title of “Datuk” will be bestowed upon Shah Rukh Khan when he receives the Governor of Malacca’s award at a ceremony on November 29^th. The award is the Malay equivalent of knighthood.

The popular heartthrob was selected for the honor due to his support of the state and for increasing the region’s popularity after he filmed One 2 Ka 4 in Malacca in 2001. Since the movie’s release, tourism to the area, especially from India, has steadily increased, according to officials.

“It is a boost for tourism in Malaysia,” local parliamentarian Mohammad Sirat Abu told the reporters after the announcement this week. “His movies are seen by people all over the world, and this is cost-free advertisement for us.”

The western Malay state is home to a historic port town and is a relic of the country’s colonial past. Malacca heavily relies upon tourism for revenue.

Khan, in return, adds to his list of royal names. In addition to being knighted, he is also referred to as the “King of Bollywood” in the Indian subcontinent.

Sirat Abu stated Indians, in particular, have made Malacca a popular resort destination because of the filming of One 2 Ka 4 in the area, yet not everyone agrees with Sirat Abu.

Politician Lim Kit Siang questioned why Khan should be honored by the Malay state when several local artists and celebrities are just as deserving.

“I don’t think the reason that has been given for making Shah Rukh Khan a Malacca Datuk would impress or convince many,” he told reporters shortly after the announcement was made to honor Khan.

Despite the mild controversy, Khan had the support of former Malaysian Prime Minister Mhathir Mohamad, who said the Bollywood actor was well-deserving of the honor.

“I feel embarrassed when the award … to Shah Rukh Khan is being questioned,” Mohamad said in a blog post on Chedet.com. “We confer such titles quite often on foreigners to appreciate their contribution to the country.

“Some of these people have contributed even less than what Shah Rukh Khan has.”

The knighting ceremony will be televised live throughout the subcontinent on Zee TV, India’s top entertainment channel.

According to officials, Malaysia hopes to attract 22.5 million tourists each year to spend about $14 billion in local economies.

Officials also reported about 16.3 million people visited Malaysia so far this year — up 4.4 percent from 2007.