"Slumdog Millionaire" Child Stars In Danger Of Losing Jai Ho Trust Fund For Missing School

October 30, 2009 9:45 a.m. EST

Mumbai, India (CNS) - The two child stars of "Slumdog Millionaire" could lose their trust funds and monthly allowance provided by the Oscar Award-winning film if they continue to miss attending school.

11-year-old Azharuddin Mohammed Ismail and 9-year-old Rubina Ali, who played the younger versions of Madhur Mittal and Freida Pinto's characters respectively in the film, are said to have missed a lot of school days.

Azharuddin showed up at school only 37 percent of the time, while Rubina only showed up 27 percent of the time this school year.

That compromises their Jai Ho Trust, which was provided by the "Slumdog" filmmakers to provide them an education, living allowance and housing.

Director Danny Boyle and producer Christian Colson stated that the kids needed to attend school at least 70 percent of the time. They have urged both families to honor their commitment to ensure that Azharuddin and Rubina regularly attend school.

If the child actors failed to do so, they would lose their monthly allowance of $120, and if they failed to graduate, they will forfeit a lump sum payment.

Shameen Ismail, Azharuddin's mother, explained that her son was inconsolable after his father's death in September, causing him to miss a lot of classes.

Fund trustee Noshir Dadrawala also blamed the children's busy schedules for their truancy.