Aishwarya Rai play Benazir Bhutto.

According to industry insiders, Aishwarya Rai is being toplined to play the role of former Pakistani prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. She is also set to share screen space with Meryl Streep on Hollywood project 'Chaos' and with Brendan Fraser in Roland Joffe’s 'Singularity'. UTV Motion Pictures is planning the project on Benazir Bhutto. “We are in talks and it’s too early to comment on the project,” said UTV CEO Siddharth Roy Kapoor. According to a source at the production house, “Aishwarya is the first preference for the role. We are looking for a woman of substance." "The actress who does the role should be admired the world over, especially on both sides of the border." Besides the Benazir project, Ash has also committed to Shankar’s 'Robot', Mani Ratnam’s next with Abhishek and Shriram Raghavan’s project opposite John Abraham.

Sanjay Dutt to romance Ash on screen

The last time we saw Sanjay Dutt and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan on screen was in Shabd. Though the film, directed by first-timer Leena Yadav, was a flop, their onscreen chemistry worked quite well.

Now, the pair will be seen again on screen, in Mani Ratnam's next. The film will also star Abhishek Bachchan .

Incidentally, Sanjay was not the director's first choice. He had first chosen Tamil actor, Vikram. But he roped in Sanjay because he wanted a more popular face.

Apparently, Sanjay accepted the film immediately when Mani asked him. He even juggled his dates, and walked out of a T-series's film to make way for Mani's film.

The T-series film, a romantic comedy, was to star Sanjay opposite Kangana Ranaut . It is directed by Radhika Rao and Vinay Sapru, who directed the Salman Khan-starrer Lucky.
Here's something for the trivia lovers: There were rumours that Sanjay would star in Mani's Aandavan with Ash and Tabu in 1997. The film was later directed by Rajeev Menon as Kandukondain Kandukondain, and Sanjay was replaced by Mammootty.

Errors make the actor real: Aishwarya

The Bachchan family is busy rehearsing for a perfect world tour from July. But daughter-in-law Aishwarya Rai says even if things "go a bit (amiss) here and there" on stage, it only makes the stars real and human.

"You do all that is required professionally to put up an entertaining evening for your fans and well-wishers. But very honestly, my attitude is that I would like to keep it real," the actress said during an interview in Bangkok where she is attending the 9th International Indian Film Academy awards event.

"I love the fact that if things go a bit here and there, it makes us so real and human," said the former Miss World.

The Bachchan family is planning a world tour titled The Unforgettable from July that will go on till next year.

"It's incredible, the connection with fans, because they never allow you to see them let you down or you letting them down. It is great when it is real and human. That's the difference between in-person interaction through our stage shows as opposed to that on celluloid and an audience sitting in a theatre and watching," she said.

The tour will have Amitabh Bachchan, his son Abhishek, Riteish Deshmukh and Preity Zinta. While Akshay Kumar will join them for the inaugural evening in Toronto July 18, Madhuri Dixit will perform in the US and Shilpa Shetty in Britain. "We are excited about the guest stars as it makes it novel. In my experience it has never happened before. We are getting guest acts and it is going to be fun for the audiences as well."

She also said that they are trying to live up to the expectations of fans.

"The tour is something extensive and we have been working on it for a while. Through the fan mails and interactions with well-wishers, we get to know what people are looking forward to, apart from the most endearing part of our cinema - song and dance."

She also added that audience is the true star. "Their energy throughout the evening is unbelievable. We don't perform continuously as different artistes are performing and we have our acts, but the audiences are up on their feet throughout and that's what keeps the energy of the whole show."

On the fans who have been following her everywhere, she said: "Our people are very, very loving as you have seen over here. At a stage show it is an entire venue and at a film shoot it is smaller. But our people give us an audience at all the different locations. There is a statistics - one in six is Indian. We are everywhere."

She feels The Unforgettable tour will continue the momentum that Indian cinema has gained in recent times.

"It is going to continue the ongoing momentum and going to keep it as strong as it already is. Like always, I keep reiterating that media plays an important role in our lives and in our attempt to reach the people. We are thankful to the media for giving us that kind of reach."

Ash and Streep to star together

Plans are afoot to bring Aishwarya Rai and Meryl Streep together in an American production of Colin Serreau's 2002 French movie, Chaos.

"They ran the concept with Meryl and Ash and they were game. They need to Americanise the theme because Chaos was a very French movie. But, yes, in principle Ash is on for this film," said a source.

Ash is slated to play a sex worker in the film.

Another international project Aishwarya has agreed to is Roland Joffe's Singularity with Brendan Fraser.




Ash says she has asked for the final draft of the script. "Now the time factor has to be worked out. The time they want is devoted to Mani Sir's project. New dates have to be worked out. There're so many projects that I want to do but because of the dates or a delay I can't. There're only that number of assignments I can take on. I've never done more work than I can do. I never can," said the star.

In the meanwhile, Aishwarya gets ready to shoot for Shankar's Robot and Mani Ratnam's film with Abhishek. "There has been a little delay in Shankar's Robot because of his writer Sujata 's death. That has delayed Robot a bit. All kinds of rumours have been floated about the project. The dates situation does get tighter for me because I was supposed to shoot Robot now and Mani Sir's film a little later during the year. We just have to work under a tighter schedule now," said Ash.

Sarkar Raj is 'almost an intelligent movie,' says Malaysian critic

Full of political overtones and violence that is rarely displayed on the screen, 'Sarkar Raj', starring the three Bachchans - Amitabh, Abhishek and Aishwarya Rai - is 'almost an intelligent movie,' says a leading Malaysian film critic.
Thanks to this, despite the Big 3, and an established director like Ram Gopal Varma, the film has done well only in big Indian cities, notes K.N. Vijiyan in the New Straits Times.
'This is because this is not the normal sort of movie from Bollywood, that is, full of songs, dances and comedy scenes.
'This is a more 'talkative' kind of movie, with plenty of dialogue and political undertones,' says the critic.
Varma gives this movie a television-like treatment, with plenty of close-ups.
He seems to shun violence, despite the subject matter. When a bomb explodes, you don't see the explosion, only the effects. You don't see people being shot (except in one scene). He prefers to show the dead person instead, the critic wrote.
To make up for the absence of songs and the slow pace, there is a good background score. The unexpected ending is superb, Vijiyan says.
There are many Ram Gopal Varma fans out there and they seek more than the usual fare from Bollywood. This is for them. It's almost an intelligent film,' he says.
Hindi films are popular in Malaysia, besides the Tamil cinema fare that is the staple entertainment for the Tamil-majority ethnic Indian population.

The Beauty of Aishwarya

Aishwarya Rai has the kind of almost flawless beauty that only fabulous genes can afford. I first saw her when she co-starred with the equally beautiful Dylan McDermott in the little known film The Mistress of Spices. Interestingly, the movie features the likes of our very own Padma Lakshmi of Bravo TV's Top Chef fame playing a small role. I say "our very own" because I just adore Top Chef. : )Although Aishwarya seems like a perfect fit for a model, we've learned she took it up only part-time to get her through school. Then came the acting when offers starting pouring in while she was still studying to become an architect. India's former Miss World winner (1994) is now known as the highest paid Bollywood actress. For those who may just be learning about "Bollywood", it is used to commonly refer to the Indian based, Hindu-language film industry, which has for a few years now been creating remakes of American classics in movies (ex: Bride & Prejudice) as well as developing their own projects. A combination of Bombay (the B attribute) and Hollywood (the rest of the term) = Bollywood.

Jaya says yes, Big B says no to 'Sarkar Raj' sequel

Veteran actress Jaya Bachchan has liked the "Sarkar Raj" saga so much that she has urged director Ram Gopal Varma to make another sequel.

"Sarkar Raj" starring Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek and his wife Aishwarya Rai, got a mixed response, but Jaya loved it."Varma was asked this question at a press conference in Bangkok and he said he has not thought about it. But Jaya in a rare reaction has urged him that he must do a part three, as did a few others. I personally feel he should not. Better for people to say 'why not' than 'why did you'," Amitabh told IANS.Incidentally, she is the most outspoken Bachchan of the family who didn't think Varma's remaking "Sholay" was a good idea and who was vocal of her opposition to tampering with an invincible classic.And now Jaya is excited by the idea of a trilogy in the "Sarkar" series. The latest political thriller ends with the death of Abhishek's character.The third part would probably show the senior Bachchan taking charge of the family empire again, with his elder son's child manoeuvring the Nagre empire by his grandpa's side. Kay Kay Menon played the elder son in the first part.Incidentally, the director had thought about another sequel even while "Sarkar Raj" was in post-production.

Ash is the highest paid actress

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has been signed for a whopping Rs 4 crores for Shankar’s Robot. And this is no April Fool’s joke, we are playing. Yes, you are reading it correct...Its for her role as female lead opposite south superstar Rajnikant in that has won Ash the award for being the highest paid actress.

An industry insider informs us that Aishwaya demanded 6 crores after assessing the scale of this film. Apparently in south, actors earn in crores but when it comes to actresses, they pay less. It is a known fact that their known and popular actresses have had to settle for less than a crore.

Former Miss World Aishwarya Rai is said to be the most beautiful woman in the world, even after 14 yrs. when she won the crown. Her brand and international recognition clearly speak the status she enjoys… and now her paychecks also say so.

Aishwarya is now officially Bollywood’s highest paid actress. Its for her role as female lead opposite south superstar Rajnikant that has won Ash the award. The actress has been signed for a whopping Rs 4 crores for Shankar’s Robot.

The amount is certainly not comparable to what Bollywood actors get, which usually runs into Rs. 20-30 crores, but is definitely more than what any other actress gets.

When asked, Aishwarya did not speak about the money. She said, “I have always been a professional as an actor. I don’t believe in the number games. I believe in my work. I am a professional and other things don’t matter to me.”

Aishwarya beat Kareena Kapoor, who has been singed for 3.5 crores which was considered as the highest price for an actress in Bollywood.

The news also says that Ash was adamant on demanding Rs. 6 crore for the role but then settled for less after Rajnikant, who is a close friend of father-in-law Amitabh Bachchan, talked to him.

Aishwarya, Abhishek buy home in Dubai

Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai have acquired a luxury villa in Dubai.

At a "Residents Party" on Friday night in the 7-star Burj Al Arab hotel, Abhishek and Aishwarya were present as new owners of a villa in the Sanctuary Falls development and introduced to future neighbours by the property's developers, Shaikh Holdings.

Though no details were divulged on the couple's new home, which is expected to be ready in the first quarter of 2010, Sanctuary Falls is a 96-villa double-gated community home, comprising five and six bedroom villas ranging from 5,600 to 10,600 square feet. According to the developers the price of the villas ranges from 15 million UAE Dirhams to 35 million UAE Dirhams(1 AED = $0.272) .

"I don't think we choose a place, I believe a place chooses you," said Abhishek with a broad smile on being asked why Dubai. The couple looked relaxed despite a hectic past week, which included a visit to the Cannes Film Festival, a three-hour walk to Mumbai's Siddhivinayak temple. They also displayed no signs of anxiety ahead of Sarkar Raj's release next week, in which Aishwarya joins Abhishek and father-in-law, Amitabh Bachchan, on screen.

"I don't think I've ever been nervous or stressed out before a film's release," said Aishwarya with her trademark giggle. Dressed in an Indian kurta, Aishwarya held onto Abhishek for most of the evening and did most of the talking when interacting with the small gathering of guests at the reception.

Having bought a place in Sanctuary Falls — a 96-villa double-gated community home — the actors also attended a "Residents Party" for owners in Jumeirah Golf Estates's this week, a gulf daily reported.

"Dubai is special to us not just as a place where we enjoy great warmth and generosity in terms of love from the people, but it's become a remarkable place and one that is so close to home for us," Abhishek said.

Speaking on the film "Sarkar Raj" — starring both Aishwarya and Abhishek, besides Amitabh Bachchan, which is scheduled to release next week, Aishwarya said the Bachchan family had a great experience working for it and were excited about sharing it with the audience.

"I'm always excited, I've never been nervous before (the release of) a film. It's been a great experience and I'm looking forward to sharing it with the audiences", said the former Miss World.

However, the two were yet to watch the film, they said. Asked if they planned to move to the emirate, Abhishek said relocating "in the real sense" was not on the cards, as the family lived and worked in Mumbai.

However Aishwarya said they were looking forward to spend more time in the island. "It's so close to Mumbai, so we'll probably be spending a lot more weekends here," she was quoted as saying.

50 Percent of Sanctuary Falls Sold Out in 48 Hours Sanctuary Falls at Jumeirah Golf Estates launched: Shaikh Holdings, a leading Dubai-based real estate investment and development company, has unveiled its first residential golf realty project in the UAE, $200 million Sanctuary Falls within the prestigious Jumeirah Golf Estates master-development in Dubai. The project will be a landmark villa community set amidst lush golf vistas and inspiring lakes. The community features a collection of 96 resort-style villas overlooking the Earth golf course designed by Greg Norman and offers a selection of varied architectural styles and views

Aishwarya's Cannes journey

Representing Bollywood at the biggest event in world cinema, Cannes, is none other than Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. This is the fourth time the actress is attending the film festival.

Eversince Devdas was screened there in 2002, Aishwarya Rai has been almost a regular at Cannes.

Her role in the film won her international recognition and the next year, she attended the film festival as a member of the jury.

"The designers are so excited and so generous and so creative and they come up with so many ideas that you actually get spoiled for choice. It gets very, very difficult to be able to zero in and decide on which one to wear," says Aishwarya.

In 2007, after her marriage with Abhishek Bachchan, the couple attended the festival together. Much to the envy of women the world over, Rai has consistently looked stunning on the red carpet.

Since her first stint with fame as Miss World in 1994, Aishwarya has been very successful as an actress, both in India and abroad.

In her upcoming release Sarkar Raj, the beautiful lady stars opposite hubby Abhishek and daddy-in-law Amitabh Bachchan.

"I have fantastic in-laws and I think that's when a girl's blessed. When you don't feel you've gone to a new home or a foreign home. When you feel as comfortable with them as your parents and the similar friendship, it's great," says the beautiful actress.

Aishwarya's next english language release is Pink Panther 2 in February 2009. The film also stars Steve Martin, Jean Reno and Andy Garcia.

Introducing AISHWARYA RAI

Birth Sign: Scorpio
Eye Color: Blue Green
Languages Spoken: English, Hindi, Kannada
Birthplace: Karnataka
Clothes, Casuals and Formals: I like structure jackets, form fitting gowns for formal wear and chikan salwaar kameez for casual wear. Jeans & T- Shirt do very well too. I hate anything that's fussy and frilly.
Favourite hero-heroine: Raj Kapoor, Nargis.
Favourite all-time movie: Casablanca
Food habits: Fussy About Very plain fare. I am not fussy about food at all. I can survive on dal chawal and vegetables.
Do you diet: NO!
What makes you happiest: My family and a very close group of friends.
What scares you the most: Roaches, I abhor them.
What do you absolutely hate: Gossip, hypocrisy.
Your dream man: Should be handsome but not necessarily tall and dark!
Your idea of love: Is what my parents share.
Your weakness: My willing-ness to take people at face value.
Your strength: My self-assurance. It's ever present even in the worst situations.
The most outrageous pass made at you: Nah, can't talk about it.
Your idea of bliss: Lies somewhere in the vicinity of my bed (I love to laze, that's all I mean!).
You're possessive about: The people I care for.
Motto: Be kind, there are battles being fought and not all of them are on the battlefield.
Best compliment you've received: A child at an orphange told me that my warmth over shines my beauty. I was bowled over!
MESSAGE TO FANS: Life may be one BIG drama, and we, character in it....
But....LIVE IT.....Every moment in it
Favourite colognes: Happy by Clinique.
What turns up on: Razor sharp intelligence, witty repartees.
Do you have a favourite pastime: Sleeping (Alone, mind you!).
Your idea of sexy: A combination of vulnerability and intelligence.
Music: What kind?
Favourite number-group: I am very democratic in my tastes, anything that's music to my ears, will do.
You're sentimental about: A lot of things from my childhood.
Do you try practical jokes: No, I don't! I am too polite for that.
Favourite holiday resort: Any place that gives me peace of mind.
You admire: Strength of character.
You believe in: In God first and then myself.
Any pets: I can only think of one right now, me!
You're paranoid about: Being an under-achiever.
Any colours you're crazy about: Black, I love it!
You're booked in the industry till: I utter the magic words, 'I Do'.
The saddest moment in your life: When I didn't make it to the top three in my 10th grade.

Awards

Award

Awards of the International Indian Film Academy: Popular Award - Actress in a Leading Role, DEVDAS (2003)

Filmfare Awards: Best Actress, DEVDAS (2003)

Screen Weekly Awards: Screen - Best Actress, DEVDAS (2003)

Screen Weekly Awards: Special Award - Jodi No. 1, DEVDAS (2003)

Zee Cine Awards: Popular Award - Best Actress, DEVDAS (2003)

Zee Cine Awards: True Indian Actress (2003)

Awards of the International Indian Film Academy: Award for Artistic Excellence - Actress in a Leading Role, STRAIGHT FROM THE HEART (2000)

Filmfare Awards: Best Actress, STRAIGHT FROM THE HEART (2000)

Screen Weekly Awards: Screen - Best Actress, STRAIGHT FROM THE HEART (2000)

Zee Cine Awards: Popular Award - Best Actress, STRAIGHT FROM THE HEART (2000)

Zee Cine Awards: Popular Award - Lux Face of the Year (2000)

Screen Weekly Awards: Screen - Most Promising Newcomer - Female, AUR PYAAR HO GAYA (1998)

Aishwarya's Thoughts and quotes

Aishwarya's Thoughts and quotes

Personal QuotesI'm just average woman with average concerns.

Life will take its toll on all of us. We get injured, we get old. It's really sad to try to run away from these harsh realities of life. Looks are not everything. I am not going to look beautiful all the time.

You give to the world your greatest gift when you're being yourself.

I believe that as an actress all my fears and phobias exist till I sign on the dotted line for a film. I don't believe in proving a point to anybody. Nobody is that important.

It's strange that Rakesh Roshan thinks I look older than Hrithik. In fact, he's approached me for all his home productions.

I always knew I would be successful. So there was no element of surprise.

I know for a fact that if there's a role which I am suited for, I'll be signed on. I'll never go begging.

"I only entered Miss India after pressure from friends and because I thought it would be a laugh".

Comedy is difficult for an actor. But I think I have a good sense of humor and manage to make people laugh and make them happy.

On donating her eyes after death - "People know me more because of my eyes. So, I decided to donate my eyes. But before that, I acquired all the information about the campaign. Within what time after death one has to donate eyes, and all other information. Only then I decided to donate my eyes. It's not that just for doing something, I donated my eyes. I found that useful so I did it. I like to do social service from my heart. Whatever is possible I do, but I don't speak of that. But I would like to give more time to it in the near future."

Women in the industry have been exploited very often, but there are some actors who belive that the short cut to stardom is through nudity or exposure. Such success is, in fact, very short-lived.

I have never done a kissing scene nor do I have intentions to.

About her film Chaos (2006): When this came to be early this year, I was ecstatic. I couldn't believe that I was actually going to work with Meryl Streep, someone I've always admired. In all my interviews 10 years ago people used to ask who is your favourite actor and actress and I would mention Robert de Niro and Meryl Streep. On my first trip there I met up with de Niro and my first film is with Meryl Streep, and I said, 'Oh God that's really, really cool. Really wonderful.

Ever since I went to the Cannes festival, the media overseas really encouraged me to consider the possibilities of working in the West. Then I got a call from some people who worked in the business in America, who asked me to first obviously get an agent so that they could have direct access because that's the way they work. About turning down the role opposite Jackie Chan in the movie _Time Breaker (2004)_, "I did not have the required dates as I was busy with the shows abroad. I had to turn down the film. I have no regrets because there is always a next time."

Indian cinema has begun to be recognized globally. And it's very important for us to make our presence felt at important events such as Cannes. I feel there should be more Indian representation at festivals. India is producing such a large cross section of films. We need to be part of world cinema, and we need to do that now.

Someone asked me why I'm politically correct, even when people hit out so openly at me. But the truth is, I've never been brought up to behave any other way. I can't say anything hurtful about anyone. I just don't believe in saying mean things. I won't feel good doing that. It's strange why being well behaved is perceived as being too 'propah' and staid. This is the way I am. I'm amazed how many people feel good hitting out at me. They're welcome to do it. Earlier, they had more leeway to deny their indiscretions in print. But now on television they look pretty ridiculous denying what they say.

About the sari on the Oprah show: "I thought I'd wear one on the show, and packed two of them, in case Oprah wanted to wear one too. As luck would have it, my flight was delayed and I reached minutes before the show went on air! So I had no time to change, which is a pity. Americans love the garment but have no clue how it's tied. Oprah is very respectful and appreciative of all cultures. She was very curious about the sari and I helped her put it on, on air! She has sent me an autographed picture saying, 'Next time we change the blouse.' She was very sweet." (Rediff, May 18, 2005)

About being on the Oprah show: "Yes, I was extremely happy to be on her show. I absolutely admire her. I never thought I'd actually be meeting her -- and that too, on her show! It's so strange. But prior to our meeting, during my visit to the US for the premiere of Bride & Prejudice, I had some afternoons off and I watched Oprah. I thought how wonderful it would be to be on her show. And within a month, I was!" (Rediff, May 18, 2005) "I am not comfortable about kissing or nudity. I am clear about what I want. I'll work only with good directors who'll offer me two-dimensional roles. The director and the role are most important." (Movie Mag International, September 2004) About her long career in entertainment: "This is my tenth year now, so things have changed within this span of time - so drastically that when I look at the work done when I just joined, it's like, "Oh my God!" So much has changed in these ten years. You get to see how you're part of the process of change within the Indian film industry. That's all positive, that's all a good sign." (Forbes Magazine, August 25th 2005) Her advice to aspiring professionals: "My biggest concern is always the students who are working toward a certain career - when they limit themselves to just that one option. They need to know that the world is huge - it's an ocean, and there are so many options. It's not the end of the world if they don't get to pursue an apparent childhood dream. That's really important, because you find a lot of kids who believe that they want to become a doctor or an aeronautical engineer or something, and if they don't manage to make their degree, that's the end. They feel so defeated, which is very disheartening. It's sad to know that people let themselves be limited by these aspirations." (Forbes Magazine, August 25th 2005)

It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice.

Life is a stage, and we are all characters. So play your part and play it well!

On why she participated in the Miss World Pageant in 1994: "For me, it went beyond being a beauty queen. For me, it was about being the 20-year-old girl from India on international platform and a lot of people actually would assume that I wasn't even educated in India because of the way I'd speak. And they'd be like, 'Have you studied in India? Do you actually speak English out there?' and, I was like, 'This is so interesting that so many people know so little about my country.' and this is exactly what I wanted to do when I set out on this little mission in my head." (Jan 2005, 60 Minutes Interview)

"Good films are good films regardless of being made in India or abroad. I believe a great story transcends cultural lines and language barriers." (American Way Magazine, 3-15-06) I choose films with characters that I feel are relative to a woman's growth for me. In The Last Legion, I play a warrior. This was a first for me and it was a fantastic experience. I would like very much to do more action films. As for the right direction, I make my choices and always move forward one step at a time. (4-26- 06) On her character in _Mistress of Spices (2005)_: "I have related to each character I have performed thus far, including Tilo. I am very sensitive to moods and one's inward feelings and emotions. I am a true people person and people watcher. I look forward to meeting interesting people and understanding their experiences in life." (4-26-06) On her character in Dhoom:2 (2006): "It's the kind of character I have never essayed before. Sunehiri, my character in the film, is distinctly different from any other character you have seen me play. That's what makes her exciting to me. For the first time in my life I went through a bit of a fitness regime. Contrary to popular belief, right since modeling, to the (Miss World) title, to films, I have never been a fitness freak or exercised." (October 2006) About director _J.P. Dutta_: "J P Dutta is a committed taskmaster. I have danced to songs before. But he always added to choreographer Vaibhavi Merchant's steps, and that was quite challenging. He would shoot an entire mukhda in one shot. To do all the songs at that level required remaining focused at all times. In that moment, I felt I became Umrao Jaan. It was interesting to deliver a performance that shows her passionate but tragic story. The film is also reflective of the art that was at its zenith in that era. The sex trade was called the performing arts then and not prostitution." (October 2006)

On Umrao Jaan (2006) being her first Urdu language film: "Since our generation speaks English, we are not very fluent in Hindi, leave alone Urdu. I loved those dialogs and the experience to work and know about that era. For me, it was a study of Urdu on the sets under the guidance of JP and Javed saab." About Rekha: "Rekha is very inspiring. It is not necessarily relative to just one performance, but her entire career, the span of characters that she has essayed, the performances that she has delivered itself is extremely inspiring. I am inspired by her performance. But I cannot ape her." (October 2006) On her role in Umrao Jaan (2006) :"Playing Umrao Jaan was a demanding emotional journey. When a story takes that course, it is following an entire arc; it goes through all the possible emotions. The process was satisfying, inspiring and challenging. It forced me to deliver the best in every moment." (October 2006) On being compared to Rekha in the original version of Umrao Jaan (1981): "For me, as an actor, it's a special experience to get the opportunity to play Umrao Jaan who has been already iconised on our celluloid. When I played Paro in Devdas, I went through the same area of questioning about how my role will be compared with the ones played earlier." (rediff.com,October 2006) "My reason for choosing a film is not to impress people. I don't choose films for the box office." (November 2006)

"The audiences feel I am part of their life so they worry about me. I think that is very sweet of them and I tell them that when I will marry I will announce it. When I get married, you'll know. I believe in marriage and it is a beautiful institution." (November 2006) "It is a very tricky situation when you get the chance to work in English films. I do films based on characters, not to get an entry into Hollywood or whatever. In English, my Bride & Prejudice did well world over. I don't know how it did in Hindi, but I know Jurassic Park too didn't do well in Hindi. I was glad audiences worldwide liked an English film that was Indian. When I did Mistress of Spices, I did it for Paul [Mayeda Berges, the director and husband of Gurinder Chadha] as a team. The film found its audiences. When the Provoked script came to me, I felt it was a very important story of an Indian woman based in London who killed her husband because of marital abuse. Kiranjit Ahluwalia made a big impression in England, and so I did this film because I felt it was an important story to be told. Provoked is an important film for many other Kirans in the world." (November 2006) As far as The Last Legion (2007) is concerned, it is a film based on a book [A novel by Valerio Manfredi]. I don't think the character of Meera [her role] is there in the book. I did the film for the new experience and it is for the first time that I was with a complete foreign crew. Working with Ben Kingsley was a great experience. Meera is an Indian in the film and she has great roots and you will identify with her strength. I feel for Indian audiences, and want them to feel pride in what I am doing: I am not doing films just to be there as guest appearances.

On celebrating her 33rd birthday: "I am just not the birthday bash kind. My day will start with a visit to the Siddhivinayak temple with my family, something I do every year. There will be no loud parties... my birthday is a very private affair. Concidering I have to leave for Dubai tomorrow, it will be over early too. Only family and friends will be there." (November 1, 2006) On the rumors that her black eye was the result of abuse by Salman Khan: "For some perverse reason, no one wants to believe me, that I fell down the stairs. First the media calls me the woman of the millennium, a woman of substance. Then how can the same media make me out to be such a doormat? I'm a self-respecting woman, I don't take nonsense from anyone. No one tries caveman tactics on me. Even Arnold Schwarzenegger can fall and get hurt, so why should I be any different?" I have never deliberately driven attention to the fact that I am working in Hollywood films. I have categorically stated that I am working in different kinds of films, be it British, Hindi, Tamil or Bengali. It's all about doing films, which are my passion. On meeting producer Harvey Weinstein for the first time at the 2005 Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People: "He is a big fan of Indian films. He has seen Devdas (2002/I), and said he respected my work. It's a big compliment coming from somebody who has such an immense body of work and yet is so humble from him? He discussed a few ideas and scripts with me. He is starting his own company. We are discussing projects. Time will tell all." On attending the dinner for Time Magazines 100 Most Influential People of the Year in 2005: "I am surprised at my life's turn of events. Six of us were asked to raise the toast for the evening. And I raised it for my parents and for my fans, without whom I wouldn't have reached where I am today. Nicole Kidman had to rush out for some premiere, but she said that she and her son loved Bride and Prejudice and I told her how I loved all her performances. Sean Penn told me that I spoke well and I told him that I've always been his fan!" Upon hearing that Julia Roberts had said that Aishwarya was the most beautiful woman she had ever seen: "That was embarrassing; at first I didn't believe she said that. I thought it was a rumor started by a journalist. But it's sweet. She's an incredible actor and she seems like a wonderful person, so all you can do is say, Thank you." (April 2007) "I am not comfortable about kissing or nudity. I've never said I'd never kiss, or whatever on screen. I've always maintained I'd cross that bridge when I come to it. Again, I'm accused of playing it safe. The truth is, I don't know what tomorrow holds. So I can't make a close ended principle about it." (2007) Her thoughts on modern women versus the queens of the era of Jodhaa Akbar (2008): I consider myself lucky to be born in today's era where a woman has far more freedom to exercise her rights. It took them ages to get ready for one appearance, and imagine staying behind curtains all day long. (2008)

Where Are They Now(May 2003) Released "Aishwarya's Greatest Hits" on DVD containing 50 of her music videos to date.

(April 2004) Will start her world-wide tour to perform alongside stars Lara Dutta, Celina Jaitley, Hrithik Roshan, and Fardeen Khan.

Biography of Aishwarya Rai

Date of Birth

1 November 1973, Mangalore, Karnataka, India

Birth Name

Aishwarya Krishnaraj Rai

Nickname

Ash ,Gullu , The Queen of Bollywood

Height

5' 7" (1.70 m)

Biography
Born into a traditional south Indian family, Aishwarya started modeling at a young age. This green-blue-eyed beauty appeared in advertisements for many prestigious firms; the ones that brought her into the limelight were the garden sari and the Pepsi ad. Crowned Miss India 1994 runner-up, she was a hot favorite in the run for miss world title, which she won, her beauty and charm made her India's darling. Ash stormed into the Indian movie industry, where she has proven herself a brilliant & genuine actress. Her performance in Iruvar (1997) was critically acclaimed, and she won the Screen best female debutant award for her role in ...Aur Pyaar Ho Gaya (1997). She was adored in movies like Taal, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, Devdas, her item number in 'Bunty & Bubbly' had sent waves of rhythm across the nation. With her successful Bollywood movies & prestigious Hollywood projects lined up for release it is impossible to ignore this Indian diva in international scenes.

Aishwarya was an architecture student before she entered modeling as her part-time job. She was best known for her Pepsi commercial with Mahima Chaudhry. With her green-grey eyes, she was already approached by big names in India's film industry, where they offered her starring roles. She rejected the film offers since she aimed to be an architect. However, fate had other things in store for her after she was crowned Miss World 1994. Soon after her winning, again she received offers to star in movies. In Southern India, she was best known for her role as Madhumita/Veishnavi in Jeans (1998) and as Meenakshi in Kandukondain Kandukondain (2000). She won the Filmfare Award for best actress for her performance in Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999) as Ajay Devgan's wife who is in love with another man. She also won rave reviews for her performance as a rape victim in Hamara Dil Aapke Paas Hai (2000).

Aishwarya Rai (Ash) is one of Bollywood's pre-eminent leading ladies. This Indian darling burst upon the world stage when her striking beauty, poise and commanding intelligence won her the Miss World crown in 1994. This former architecture major soon became one of India's most famous models landing a prestigious Pepsi campaign and appearing in Vogue Magazine. India's top Bollywood directors were soon lining up to work with Ash. Her film debut in Mani Rathnam's 'Iruvar' (1997) received critical acclaim and her performance in Aur Paar Ho Gaya' (1997) directed by Rahul Rawail garnered her the Best Female Debutante Award. In 2000 she was awarded Best Actress by FilmFare and Zee Cine for her work in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's "Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam", in that same year, nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her special appearance in Aditya Chopra's Mohabbatein (2000). In 2001 Ash was nominated for FilmFare's Best Actress Award for Satish Kaushik's "Hamara Dil Aapke Paas Hai".
Ash's star continued to rise in 2002 working again with Sajay Leela Bhansali in 'Devdas'. 'Devdas' is the most ambitious and most successful film in Bollywood history. It became the first Bollywood picture to ever receive a special screening at this year's Cannes Film Festival and broke box-office records in India and the United States.

2003 brought even more exciting opportunities. Ash became the first Indian actor to be a member of the jury at the Cannes Film Festival. She is also the latest member of the elite L'Oreal Dream Team, joining beauties Catherine Deneuve & Andie MacDowell as their international ambassador. She graced the covers of India Today and the prestigious TIME Magazine. Time Magazine has also listed her on their list of the "100 Most Influential People in the World Today". She has graced numerous covers worldwide including USA, UK, China, Russia, Israel, United Emerites, Italy, Spain and France. Ash was also listed on Rolling Stone Magazine's annual "Hot List", Hello Magazine's Most Attractive Women in the World", Stuff Magazine, FHM magazine, V-Life from Variety Magazine, GQ Magazine, New York Times Magazine, Harper's & Queen and countless others.

2004 saw Aishwarya take on the leading role in her first English language film for Gurinder Chadha in "Bride & Prejudice". She also became the first Indian female to be immortalized in wax at the world famous Madame Tussaud's wax museum in London.
With over 17,000 websites dedicated to her, Ash finally launched her "Official Website" http://www.aishwaryaworld.com/

2005 started with appearances on "60 Minutes", "David Letterman Show" and the most watched television program in the world the "Oprah Winfrey Show". Aishwarya's career continues to grow even stronger - she will soon be seen in Mistress of Spices for director Paul Berges, Jag Mundhra's Provoked, Sanjay Gadhvi's Dhoom 2 and legendary film producer Dino De Laurentiis's The Last Legion opposite Colin Firth and Sir Ben Kingsley. The Queen of Bollywood is already becoming the talk of tinseltown and is currently in negotiations on two major motion pictures.

Spouse

Abhishek Bachchan (20 April 2007 - present)

Trade Mark

Her blue-green eyes

Trivia

Wanted to study medicine, but circumstances prevented her.

Miss World 1994.

Dated Salman Khan.

Was offered Rani Mukherjee's role in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998).

Runner up, Miss India 1994

Ambassador (spokesperson) for Longines watches since 1999.

Daughter of Vrinda Rai

Sister of Aditya Rai

In April 2003, she suffered an accident on the sets of Khakee (2004) when a car driven by a stuntman got out of control, hit her, took her down a crevice, and slammed her into a cactus plant. She broke a bone in one foot and suffered severe cuts, and she was rushed to a hospital. The incident rekindled the discussion about poor safety standards on Bollywood film sets.

The first Indian actress to be on the jury of the Cannes International Film Festival.

Has made over 50 music videos in only seven years.

Despite the fact that she is adorned with jewelry in her music videos and movies, she is apparently not too fond of it.

Is the highest paid actress in Bollywood.

Created a frenzy at the 2002 Cannes Film Festival when she arrived at the premiere of her film _Devdas (2002)_ in a coach and wearing a beautiful yellow-orange-embroidered sari.

Was originally cast in the role of Jwala in the film _The Rising: Ballad of Mangal Pandey (2005)_, but dropped out before filming started due to contract problems. The role was later given to Amisha Patel.

Loves collecting watches.

Made her first commercial for Camlin pencils when she was in the 9th grade.

Was the Coca Cola Girl for the Middle East and south Asia.

Favorite subject in college was Zoology.

Has achieved iconic status all over South Asia.

Is featured in the 2004 edition of the Guinness Book of World Records.

In a poll conducted by Hello magazine, she was voted the number-one attractive woman of 2003, beating actresses such as Nicole Kidman, Catherine Zeta-Jones, and Gwyneth Paltrow.

In April 2003, L'Oréal signed her as its new international brand ambassador (spokesperson). The first Bollywood star to appear in Rolling Stone magazine (Issue 932, October 2, 2003) Gained 20 pounds for Bride & Prejudice (2004) because she didn't want her character to look like a supermodel and also felt that it would add a sense of realism to the character.

Is a Bunt, like fellow actors Shilpa Shetty and Sunil Shetty. The Bunts are a South Indian community who mainly speak Tulu, which is Aishwarya's mother tongue.

Turned down the lead in Munnabhai M.B.B.S. (2003). The role was given to Gracy Singh.

Turned down the role of Mastani in the film _Bajirao Mastani (2005)_.

The first movie star she ever met was Rekha. Aishwarya was still in high school at the time and was a model. While at a grocery store with her mother, Aishwarya was tapped on the shoulder by none other than Rekha herself. Rekha recognized Aishwarya from her modeling ads. She complimented the young Aishwarya on her good looks and wished her all the best.

Is fluent in the languages English, Hindi, Kannada, Tamil, and Urdu. Receives at least two movie offers every day.

Was originally intended for the role of Priya in the film _Chalte Chalte (2003)_.

Aamir Khan and Aishwarya Rai are the only stars to advertise for both Coca Cola and Pepsi.

Before she was famous, she auditioned to do voice-dubbing for a television serial and was rejected.

Shahrukh Khan recommended her to play Kaurwaki in the film Asoka (2001). But the director wanted to cast someone who hadn't already been paired with Shahrukh as a leading lady.

After winning the title of Miss World in 1994, the host of the event, Richard Steinmetz, actually asked Aishwarya out. But being a professional, she refused right away.

Sued the magazine Star and Style for a sum of Rs 20 million (2 crore) for printing an article claiming that actress Raveena Tandon had caught her and Akshay Kumar in a compromising position at the poolside of a five- star hotel.

During the filming of the song 'Dola Re Dola' from the movie _Devdas (2002)_, Aishwarya's ears were bleeding because to the heavy earrings she had to wear, but she continued to perform anyway.

Is a trained classical dancer. She learnt classical dance and music for five years while in her teens.

Has a puppy named Sunshine, which was given to her as a gift by friend Vivek Oberoi.

Won the title of Miss Photogenic in the 1994 Miss World Pageant.

Has won over 100 awards since 1994 when she was 20.

Is good friends with actress Preity Zinta.

Has gained a cult following in Pakistan.

Was listed in Time magazine as one of 100 most influential people in the world (The 2004 TIME 100).

Ran the Olympic-torch relay in June 2004.

Turned down a role in San wa (2005) due to her touring schedule. The role was eventually given to Mallika Sherawat.

Has refused to work with Salman Khan after their break-up, in spite of several offers.

Has over 17,000 Web sites dedicated to her.

In 2004, Aishwarya became the first Bollywood and Indian actress to have her own statue at London's Madame Tussauds museum.

On January 2nd, 2005, she became the first Indian actress to be interviewed on "60 Minutes" (1968). Voted #9 in Harpers and Queen magazine's list of the 100 most beautiful women of today. (Harpers and Queen, June 6, 2005)
A tulip produced in 2005 was named for her.

Member of the jury at the 2003 Cannes Film Festival.

When Oprah Winfrey saw Aishwarya's interview on "60 Minutes" (1968), she was so fascinated by her that she got a hold of Ash and invited her to be a guest on her show. On April 25, 2005, Aishwarya became the first Indian and South Asian actress to be featured on _"Oprah Winfrey Show, The" (1986)_.

Turned down the role of Helen in the film Troy (2004).

Director Andy Tennant offered her a part in _Hitch (2005)_, but she turned it down because she was so busy with other films.

Turned down the role of Anna in Barsaat (2005).

In the summer of 2005, Mattel released limited-edition Barbie dolls inspired by Aishwarya and her costumes. They were released only in Britain and sold out within minutes. These dolls are now considered rare collectibles among fans.

Her favourite film is Casablanca.

Was voted number 12 on VH1's 50 Sexiest Actresses of the Last 20 Years. (December 2005) Roger Ebert has said he considers her the most beautiful actress in the world.

Was voted as E's 7th sexiest celebrity in the world

The first actress from India to get signed on with the American Library Association and also have a poster made of her for schools and library's all across America.

Was originally signed on to play the part of Simmi in Bluffmaster! (2005), but was replaced without any notice by Priyanka Chopra. Director Rohan Sippy then gave Aishwarya a "special thanks" in the end credits as an apology.

Turned down the part of Sandhya in _Saamna (2006)_.

When President George W. Bush visited India in March 2006, he invited Aishwarya, along with Aamir Khan, to a luncheon. Aishwarya could not attend because she was in Brazil at the time filming for Dhoom:2 (2006).

Was considered for the role of Priya in Krrish (2006).

Turned down the lead in Corporate (2006) because she didn't have any dates available for filming. The role was given to Bipasha Basu.

In mid 2001, Aishwarya started work on two films titled Radheshyam Seetaram and Hum Panchhi Ek Daal Ke. For reasons unknown, filming stopped on these films in February 2002. Filming was never completed and the films have now been shelved. The only glimpse of the movies that exist for the public to see are photographs from the sets and publicity shots. Performed to an audience of 85,000 in Melbourne, Australia at the closing ceremony of the 2006 Commonwealth Games with 800 backup dancers. (March 2006) Was cast with a small role in Lajja (2001), but was dropped because there were already too many major stars in the film.

When Karan Johar asked Aishwarya on his talk show which film she wishes she could have been a part of, she responded _Khamoshi: The Musical (1996)_.

Is the second Indian actress to appear on the cover of TIME magazine in 2003. The first was Parveen Babi in 1976.

Is very popular in many Arab countries.

Featured in People Magazine as one of the 100 Most Beautiful People in the World. (Issue May,8,2006)

Was considered for the role of Kalyani in Water (2005).

Got her education at Arya Vidya Mandir and DG Ruparel College, both in Bombay, India. She was also accepted into Raheja College of Architecture in Bombay, but never went.

Good friends with fellow Indian superstar and icon, Madhuri Dixit. The two worked together in the super-hit and widely acclaimed Devdas.

Listed as number 3 of 'Top Bollywood Actresses' of 2006. (rediff.com, 8-25- 2006) Caused a day long traffic jam in Dubai, United Arab Emirates while filming a soap commercial. People would stop for hours just to catch a glimpse of their favorite actress. (September 5, 2006) Listed #3 by UK magazine Eastern Eye one of "Asia's Sexiest Women" (Sept/ 2006). Is the most photographed woman in India. She was the first choice for the role of Jane Smith in Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005), but she turned it down due to filming conflicts. She secured 90% marks in HSC at Ruparel college in Mumbai. her Pepsi ad with Aamir Khan was shot in one night during the infamous Bombay riots. Has been in six movies with Abhishek Bachchan, more than with any other actor. Came in #1 in BollySpice.com Magazine's list of "Top 10 Actresses of 2006". Turned down the part of Malvika Talwar in Baabul (2006). In January 2007, she announced that she has accepted a marriage proposal from current boyfriend, actor Abhishek Bachchan. Is often referred to as "the most beautiful woman in the world". In 2005, Hugh M. Hefner attempted to create and Indian version of Playboy for India, which would feature South Asian women and Indian pop culture articles, but no nudity. He wanted to have Aishwarya on the cover of the first issue. The magazine was rejected. Twice turned down the lead in the Hindi version of Chandramukhi (2005). Was invited in 2005 to be a presenter at The 77th Annual Academy Awards (2005) (TV), but was unable to attend because she was busy filming for The Mistress of Spices (2005). Is active in various charities and often visits orphanages. Her favorite Western designer is Giorgio Armani. Whenever she is in London, clothes are taken to her hotel for her to choose from. Is the second of five Indian women to win the Miss World title. The first was Reita Faria, who won in 1966. Others include Diana Hayden who won in 1997, Yukta Mookhey in 1999, and Priyanka Chopra in 2000. Ranked #30 in TIME magazines issue of '100 Most Influential People of the Year'. This is her second time making the list, her first being in 2004. (The Time 100, 2007). Has appeared on more magazine covers worldwide than any other Bollywood or Indian star. Director Brett Ratner is a fan of Aishwarya's and he wanted her to be cast in Rush Hour 3 (2007), but she turned down the offer. Was considered for the part of Vesper Lynd in Casino Royale (2006). Her wax statue at Madame Tussauds Museum in London was borrowed by the museum in New York for six weeks. The statue was flown to New York and made its debut on August 15, 2007, making her the first Indian actress in the American version of the museum. About 15 kilos of henna was special ordered from Sojat in Rajasthan for the henna ceremony before her wedding. Her wedding invitations were embossed with two entwined As and delivered along with a box of chocolate meringues. Within the invitation was also a poem about new beginnings written by Amitabh Bachchan's father and renowned poet Harivash Rai Bachchan. Her wedding ceremony lasted a total of three days. It was the most awaited and talked about wedding in years and the press followed it like Princess Diana's wedding. For her 34th birthday, she went to go see Beyonce Knowles in concert in Mumbai.