Kanye West To Take Break

Reports in the American press state that Kanye West could be set to take a break - by heading to an Indian retreat.

India has long had a place in popular culture. The nation's vast countryside mixed with its religious subtleties have made it a rich source for pop star inspiration, with many seeking refuge in the ancient land.

When The Beatles tired from the excesses of worldly fame the Fab Four retreated to India, writing part of 'The White Album' in the country. Now it seems a new name is set to head to the country - Kanye West.

The hip hop icon has faced a mountain of bad press since storming the stage at last month's VMA Awards. Upstaging Taylor Swift he earned condemnation from the singer's mother and also Barack Obama - who labelled Kanye West a "jackass".

Apologising repeatedly, those close to the star claim that he has been deeply affected by the controversy. Since then, Kanye West has cancelled a joint tour with Lady Gaga without giving an explanation.

Speaking to Star Magazine an insider claimed the rapper was due to seek refuge in India. "He feels terrible about hurting Taylor Swift," the report claimed.

"(He) sees it as another sign that his life is going in the wrong direction since his mother died."

Kanye West is expected to spend a month at a Hindu ashram in Pondicherry, India.

Bizarrely, the rapper isn't the only hip hop icon to travel to India in recent months. MCA of Beastie Boys fame has been using alternative medicine in the country to fight his recently diagnosed cancer.