Aishwarya Rai

Wallpapers 02

2008-12-29T04:45:00.000-08:00

Aishwarya Rai Photo Gallery

2008-12-28T16:08:00.000-08:00

International Stardom Devdas, in which Aishwarya joined Bollywood superstars Shah Rukh Khan and Madhuri Dixit, was a huge hit, lavishly produced as it was. The film attracted overseas attention as well, receiving a special screening at the Cannes Film Festival.

Rai was becoming an international star rather than simply a Bollywood one. In 2003, Rai was a member of the jury at Cannes. In 2004, she was chosen by TIME Magazine's Asian Edition as one of Asia's "100 Most Influential People." Rai was the subject of a 60 Minutes profile on January 2, 2005 - "The Most Beautiful Woman in the World." A month later she appeared on the Late Show with David Letterman, and on April 25, 2005, she was featured on Oprah's "Women Across the Globe" segment. A wax figure of Rai is on display in London's Madame Tussaud's wax museum.

Although frequently the subject of gossip column speculation about an imminent Hollywood career, it was only in 2004 that Rai finally acted in a foreign film. British director Gurinder Chadha hired her to play the heroine in Bride and Prejudice, a Hollywood-funded but Bollywood-ized version of Jane Austen's classic novel, Pride and Prejudice. The movie did well at the box office and Aishwarya's Hollywood profile rose a notch.

Rai is now said to be signed for another Hollywood movie, Rolland Joffe's project Singularity. She will star opposite Brendan Fraser.

She is in the cast for The Last Legion co-starring Colin Firth and Ben Kingsley.

She recently (summer of 2005) completed filming on director Jagmohan Mundhra's film Provoked. She is co-starring with Nandita Das. The film was shot mainly in Britain.

Rai About

2007-12-07T16:24:00.001-08:00

Aishwarya Rai
Aishwarya Rai's Top 10 Hottest Moments On Screen
2007-11-30 21:21:00
Aishwarya Rai's refusal to do any more 'hot scenes' on screen prompted me to compile a list of Top 10 moments where ash has been the sexiest , the hottest she has been on screen. In short my Favourite Ashploitation moments on screen.Starting with #10 Kandukonden Kandukonden One really cant go wrong with getting ash wet in a towel , this was back when there was oodles of innocence on her face (much of which is still there) but she was really new in the industry back then looked as if she didnt know about the big bad world of bollywood. Ashploited !!#9 Kyon Ho Gaya NahAishwarya Rai & her then Boyfriend Vivek Oberoi in the movie Kyon ho gaya nah indulging in a kiss which doesnt look like a cheat kiss like it is in most bollywood movies plus aishwarya didnt seem uncomfortable doing it since he was her then boyfriend , the kiss is probably the only thing about the movie worth remembering for us & most forgetable for aishwarya. Aishwarya had a couple of cheat kisses before this...
By: Desi Masala Clips And Videos
Sequel to Abhimaan with Ash and Abhishek!
2007-11-30 08:31:00
Hindustan Times is reporting that there is a Abhimaan 2 on the horizon which will star the entire Bachchan Khandaan! According to the rumor mill, the film would be produced by Pawan Kumar Jain (who produced the original movie) and will have Amitabh and Jaya Bachchan playing parents to Abhishek Bachchan. Aishwarya Bachchan will play her real life role (she plays Abhishek's wife). Keep watching this space for more updates.
By: Our Bollywood
Images: Abhishek and Aishwarya Celebrating World AIDS Day
2007-11-30 08:24:00
Abhishek and Aishwarya decided to take a break from all their temple visits and spent some quality time at a Children’s NGO. Some images from the event.
By: Our Bollywood
Ashutosh Gowariker On Relevance of Jodhaa Akbar in Todays Time
2007-11-27 11:57:00
Ashutosh Gowariker spoke to Subhash K Jha recently and some excerpts from the interview.After Lagaan, you return to a period film in Jodhaa Akbar?You might say that. But i call Lagaan a period film. Jodhaa Akbar is to me a historical. Anything after 1857 is a period film for me. Anything before that is a historical. I'd call Mughal-E-Azam a historical though its focus was different from mine. I feel if today we make a story about the past it must be correlated to the present. And Jodhaa Akbar is as relevant to present times as arranged marriages. Jodhaa and Akbar shared a perfect arranged marriage. I was fascinated by how their relationship must have grown after marriage.Have you stressed the religious difference between Jodhaa and Akbar?It's important but not stressed in my film. Akbar's marriage to Jodhaa was no common occurrence. It had a nationwide reverberation 450 years ago when society was far more conservative. How did their marriage affect those times? That'...
By: Our Bollywood
Ben Kingsley's on Taj Mahal and Aishwarya Rai
2007-11-23 11:29:00
Sir Ben Kingsley is extremely enthusiastic about his upcoming project Taj Mahal which also stars Aishwarya Rai and Bipasha Basu. Some excerpts from a recent interview to TOI.Why this sudden obsession with the Taj Mahal and why not on the other seven wonders of the world?"Well, ever since I did Gandhi 25 years back, I have been toying with the idea of making a movie on this eternal love story," he reveals. "What attracted me to this beautiful story is the historical background which is intriguing and emotional. It's a story about turmoil, betrayal and jealousy, violence and love. It is a beautiful paradox where passion turned into marble. It has all the ingredients to make it a blockbuster," he says in his British accent.
By: Our Bollywood
Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai at Peer Dargah
2007-11-21 15:20:00
Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai were recently spotted at the meen Peer Dargah in a town called Kadapa, about 400 kms from Hyderabad, in Andhra Pradesh. They were accompanied by Jaya Bachchan and of course Amar Singh.
By: Our Bollywood
Aishwarya Rai - Back to looking Beautiful
2007-11-16 04:53:00
The Bacchan'sAishwarya & AbhishekPost Marraige Aishwarya's hotness has multiplied, for reasons best known to her aishwarya had become too thin recently specially in her last few movies & her cheeks had sunk in badly, although every idiot specially the media went gaga over her slim look. Post marraige the stress is out, films,etc have taken a backseat, the glow on her face is definitely back, and there are rumours of pregnancy which could well be true going by the rounds of various religious places the couple are visiting everywhere. Abhishek needs a haircut though, that schoolgirl hairband thing isnt working anymore.'); } exo('http://syndication.exoclic-k.com/ads.php?type=468x60-thumb-s&login=criminallysane&cat=327&-search=&ad_title_color=&bgcolor-=&border=1&ad_text_color=&adult-=1'); -->
By: SexXxy RaunchY Bollywood HQ PICS
Aishwarya Rai
2007-11-16 00:32:00
Aishwarya Rai (born November 1, 1973) is an Indian actress. Prior to her career in film, she worked as a model and gained fame for winning the Miss World contest in 1994. She is very beautiful and sexy.
By: Sexy Indonesian girls and Beautiful
Abhishek, Aishwarya visit dargah in Andhra Pradesh
2007-11-15 12:46:00
Hyderabad, Nov 15 (IANS) Film actor Abhishek Bachchan and his wife Aishwarya Rai Thursday offered prayers at the shrine of Ameen Peer in Kadpa town of Andhra Pradesh.
By: Latest News
Exclusive Images From Jodhaa Akbar
2007-11-13 17:11:00
Some excusive images from the epic Jodhaa Akbar which will release on January 25th 2008. More pics after the jump
By: Our Bollywood
Now Abhishek-Aishwarya in Bajirao Mastani!
2007-11-13 11:21:00
According some Internet News Now Aishwarya Rai and Abhishek in Sanjay Leela Bhansali New Film Called Bajirao Mastani, Amitabh Bachchan is also going to essay an important character in the film.
By: Latest News
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan
2007-11-11 20:23:00
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan was born on 01st November, 1973 to father Krishna Raj Rai, the Marine Engineer and mother Vrinda Rai ? the writer, in the Bunt community in Mangalore of Karnataka is the award winning and most celebrated actress in the Indian Film Industry today. Her elder brother Aditya Rai is in the ...
By: Hot Hollywood Girls
Aishwarya Rai
2007-11-09 06:15:00
Aishwarya RaiAishwarya RaiAishwarya RaiAishwarya RaiAishwarya RaiAishwarya RaiAishwarya RaiAishwarya RaiName: Aishwarya RaiProfession: ActressBirth date: 1 November 1973Height: 169 cmBirthplace: Mangalore, IndiaAishwarya Rai is an Indian actress and former fashion model, currently one of the highest-paid actresses in India. She is Miss World of 1994, and in 2000 was voted Most Beautiful Miss World of All Time.It is reported that Julia Roberts called her the most beautiful woman in the world at the Cannes Film Festival. Her fans ranked her as "The Most Beautiful Woman in the World" in a Hello! Magazine poll.She has been interviewed on 60 Minutes, The Oprah Winfrey Show, The Early Show, etc. and was introduced by David Letterman as "the biggest movie star in the world".
By: Sexy girl in asia and pretty japanese idol
Aishwarya Rai - Aishwarya Rai Photo and Gallery of Pics
2007-11-02 12:30:00
Aishwarya Rai Photo, Pictures, Wallpaper and Updated Photo Gallery of Aishwarya Rai Aishwarya Rai Bachchan born on November 1, 1973, is an Indian actress. Prior to her career in film, she worked as a model and gained fame for winning the Miss World contest in 1994. Share This
By: Latest News
Aishwarya celebrates ?special birthday? in Agra
2007-11-01 09:25:00
Mumbai, Nov 1 (IANS) It can’t be anything but destiny. Aishwarya Rai, who will be playing Mumtaz Mahal in Ben Kingsley’s film on the Taj Mahal, celebrated her 34th birthday in Agra with husband Abhishek Bachchan. Share This
By: Latest News
Happy Birthday 2 Aishwarya Rai
2007-11-01 09:01:00
Today is 1st November and this lovely angel completed 34 years on this Earth.Wishing her many many returns of the day?
By: hotgirls4u.blogspot.com
Aishwarya Rai - The most beautiful woman in the world
2007-10-31 11:47:00
According CBSNews, the most beautiful woman in the world at the moment is Aishwarya Rai. It is very possible that this name to tell you nothing. But, it seems that this woman is in the first place in a lots ...
By: A Man's World Online
Video: Abhi-Ash's Khushii At 9 Lakhs
2007-10-30 09:50:00
IndiaFM brings you footage from the auction of the Abhi-Ash painting, which sold off at a whopping 9 lakh Indian Rupess. Kim Sharma, Kapil Dev and the man himself Abhishek Bachchan without his lady love in attendance graced this social event. Take a look!
By: Our Bollywood
Hot Aishwarya Rai in Swimsuit
2007-10-30 05:38:00
The very rare photos of Aishwarya are either from the Miss World competition or from the very few instances on the big screen she has actually worn a swimsuit or done a "wet scene". Extremely hot photos... The first photo above is from the Miss World competition which she represented India in 1994. The second one is from the print advertising shoot. Some more sexy and hot scans of Aishwarya
By: Indian celebs in Swimsuits
November 1 Celebrity Birthday: Aishwarya Rai
2007-10-30 05:28:00
Name: Aishwarya Rai BachchanBirthday: November 1, 1973Place Of Birth: Mangalore, Karnataka, India. Star Sign: ScorpioRelationship Status: Aishwarya Rai has previously dated model Rajeev Mulchandani and actors Salman Khan and Vivek Oberoi. She is now married to actor Abhishek Bachchan.Claim2Fame: Prior to her successful film career, Aishwarya Rai gained worldwide fame and popularity as the winner of the Miss World beauty pageant in 1994. She has acted in nearly forty Hindi, Tamil, Bengali and English films. Aishwarya is often touted as ?the most beautiful woman in the world," and has acted in many international film projects. She speaks at least six different regional Indian languages, including English. After winning the Miss World title, Aishwarya has worked in several prestigious modeling assignments and fashion magazines, and later embarked on a film career.Time magazine named her as one of the world's ?100 Most Influential People? in 2004. She has even appeared in...
By: Celebrity Birthdays
Hot Aishwarya Rai spotted at Beyonce Concert
2007-10-30 00:00:00
Pop sensation Beyonce Knowles rocked Mumbai as a large gathering of mostly youngsters danced to her hit numbers at a dazzling concert here on Saturday evening.The crowd went euphoric when Beyonce came on the stage at the MMRDA Grounds in Bandra even as pyrotechnics and laser special effects enveloped her ...
By: HOT PIX OF BOLLYWOOD ACTRESS, INDIAN CELEBS and MO
Aishwarya At Beyonce's Mumbai Concert
2007-10-29 17:50:00
Aishwarya Rai was spotted at the Beyonce concert in Mumbai. Beyonce wore a pink lehenga-choli that was put together for her apna Rocky S.“I got as call from Beyonce’s manager the morning of the concert requesting me to bring a couple of outfits that Beyonce could try on for the concert later in the day,” says an excited Rocky, who took over two dozen outfits with him to the hotel, out of which Beyonce choose over a dozen pieces she liked immensely.“After she zeroed in on the pink lehenga-choli, she selected another outfit for the after-show party and also 12 more pieces to take back. I feel honoured that she chose me to do her outfits — and that too in a matter of hours before the show!” Via Bollywood Blogspot
By: Our Bollywood
Aishwarya rai at Beyonce knowles concert
2007-10-28 18:09:00
Aishwarya rai spotted at the concert of Beyonce knowles in Mumbai
By: love of bollywood stars
Aishwarya Rai in Swimsuit
2007-10-27 11:59:00
Aishwarya Rai or now Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has rarely acted in films where there is a swimsuit scene. The screen captures below are from a movie very early in her career. Aa Ab Laut Chalen starred Akshay khanna and Suman Ranganathan along with Aishwarya. She is trying to please Akshay Khanna in the song below. The Full song captures are below. The Complete Song screen
By: Indian celebs in Swimsuits
A Critical Analysis of Aishwarya Rai's style and beauty
2007-10-26 14:00:00
Aishwarya Rai is the Indian actress who won the Miss World Contest in 1994, and whom Julia Roberts said was the most beautiful woman in the world. Sh1 Vote(s)
By: JeQQ it
Aishwarya Rai HOTTEST Scan Forever on Net
2007-10-26 11:43:00
Here are some Hot Scans of Aishwarya Rai [Wallpapers]...hopefully unseen. Seeing these pics make me feel that after marriage she has developed nice n tight curves. And another thing I suspect is that she has is not wearing bra inside while give these hot poses.
By: Bollywood Junction
Aishwarya Rai In wet Dress Looking very Sexy ....in Rain...She has shown h
2007-10-26 09:13:00
Aishwarya Rai is an Hottest Model in Bollywood...as per as today Current Bollywood..
By: Desi-Babes-India
Aishwarya Rai (Lux)
2007-10-25 13:01:00
Aishwarya's lux commercial was probably the hottest one they've had yet, ash was in her dhoom 2 scheme of things with clothings she hadnt tried out in her career ever. Kudos to sanjay gadhvi & yashraj.
By: Desi Scans
Aishwarya Rai Nipple Pokies : 100% Real n Unseen
2007-10-22 13:54:00
Aishwarya Rai looking stunning hot in black saree..isn't it. N watching it carefully u'll be able to see the nipple impressions of her right boob. Click on the image for fullsize
By: Bollywood Junction
Aishwarya rai Could Act with John
2007-10-22 04:20:00
Aishwarya rai:John and ash may act together in a movie based on love. The film is going to be directed by Sriram raghavan and produced by director turned producer Rohan sippy. Aishwarya who is ready with her latest flick Jodha Akber opposite to Hrithik hasn’t signed yet .The director Sriram is very much exited to ...
By: Bollywood Hollywood News
Jodhaa Akbar trailer released, view it now
2007-10-17 22:28:00
One of the most awaited films of 2007 is undoubtedly Jodhaa Akbar, starring Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and directed by Ashutosh Gowarikar. The promos for the film have also been eagerly awaited.Well, the wait is over as the trailer for the film has been released. A fan posted the trailer on YouTube, which you can watch below. A better quality trailer should be available in the next few days.
By: Goss INDIA
Aishwarya Rai - Easily Her Sexiest Photo Shoot Till Date
2007-10-17 15:46:00
Atleast ive not seen 'so much' of Aishwarya Rai in any other photoshoot of hers, this is quite a departure from her usual tame shots that she has done in india, when it comes for the international audience , they surely do get to see a 'lot more of aishwarya rai' then we get to see back home. This is by far aishwarya rai's boldest photoshoto till date imho. '); } exo('http://syndication.exoclic-k.com/ads.php?type=468x60-thumb-s&login=criminallysane&cat=327&-search=&ad_title_color=&bgcolor-=&border=1&ad_text_color=&adult-=1'); -->
By: SexXxy RaunchY Bollywood HQ PICS
Aishwarya Rai
2007-10-17 12:17:00
Here you will find latest high quality wallpapers of Aishwarya Rai. Enjoy !!!
By: Bollywood actress wallpapers
[Fotos] Aishwarya Rai, la mujer mÃ¡s bella del mundo
2007-10-14 10:21:00
Aishwarya Rai, de treinta y tres aÃ±os y dos ojos verdes que parecen reciÃ©n salidos de una novela de SandokÃ¡n, hoy por hoy es la actriz mÃ¡s taquillera de Bollywood, la industria cinematogrÃ¡fica india, esa gigantesca fÃ¡brica de sueÃ±os que anualmente estrena cerca de mil pelÃculas y vende mÃ¡s de treinta billones de entradas.Se calcula que cada dÃa, sÃ³lo en la India, hay doce millones de personas que van a ver una pelÃcula hecha en Bollywood. Para la mayorÃa de ellos el cine es mÃ¡s que una mera diversiÃ³n: es un modo de escapar unas horas de sus vidas. Eso hace que, en el Ã¡rea de influencia de Bollywood, Aishwarya Rai no sea un personaje famoso, como Madonna o Nicole Kidman, Ãdolos de un Occidente irÃ³nico que los admira y al tiempo los aborrece. Ella es distinta, es una estrella absoluta, alguien perfecto, milagroso, inalcanzable, una especie de Marilyn Monroe esplendorosa, inteligente y con sari.Una de las obsesiones de Rai consiste en utilizar su popularidad para que ...
By: DE TODO PARA VIVIR
Aishwarya rai and Abhishek roaming on the streets of Boston
2007-10-13 23:14:00
Aishwarya rai and Abhishek having a time of their life
By: love of bollywood stars
Jodha Akbar:Aishwarya rai, Hrithik roshan's look revealed
2007-10-11 16:56:00
Here is an exclusive first look of Jodha Akbar, starring Hrithik roshan and Aishwarya rai.Aishwarya rai is looking really gorgeous as a princess jodha, and for the first time you will be seeing Hrithik roshan with a mustache
By: love of bollywood stars
Exclusive: Hrithik and Aishwarya's Look From Jodhaa Akbar Unveiled
2007-10-11 13:16:00
After an excruciating wait, we finally get a glimpse of Hrithik and Aishwarya In Ashutosh Gowarikar’s Jodhaa Akbar. The couple does indeed look like every bit of royalty and keep watching this space for the video trailer in coming days. See Hrithik's Look After The Jump
By: Our Bollywood
Rohan Sippy determined to cast Aish opposite John
2007-10-11 07:09:00
Mumbai, Oct 11 (IANS) Aishwarya Rai is reluctant to do a non-Abhishek Bachchan love story. But producer Rohan Sippy is very keen to have her in his film and is planning to fly to Boston this week to convince her.
By: Latest News
Aishwarya Rai Opposite John Abraham ?
2007-10-09 19:56:00
She recently refused Karan Johar ?s proposal to star opposite John Abraham but now the gorgeous Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is being sought after by another filmmaker for a role opposite the dashing star. And that filmmaker is none other than Rohan Sippy , who would finally be starting his next venture after Bluffmaster , though this ...
By: Bollywood Hollywood News
Aishwarya Rai VS Angelina Jolie?
2007-10-06 08:17:00
Why would someone think that these two sexy actress would be in the same categories. Aishwarya Rai makes bollywood movies and Angelina Jolie likes to visit India and is an Hollywood actress that doesn't sing in her movies. Rai Has beautiful eyes and Jolie has sexy lips. You be the judge on this video.
By: Top Sexy Women
Aishwarya Rai Popular In China!
2007-10-04 11:23:00
Looks like Bollywood have a considerable following in the sub-provincial district of Shenzhen, China! And it’s none other than Aishwarya Rai who is a hot favourite.Just opposite to the majestic hotel Pavilion on the Huaqiang Road is a huge L'Oreal hoarding featuring Rai. "She's beautiful. I pass through this road every day and never fail to have a look at the hoarding," says Zu Shan, who works as a marketing executive of an advertising company. Aishwarya is the brand ambassador of L'Oreal's cosmetic products."Aishwarya is a good actress. I have seen most of her movies," he says.Zu's favourite male star is Abhishek Bachchan. "The two make a great couple," he says.Zeng Fangjun also adores Aishwarya's beauty as well as her acting talents.
By: Our Bollywood
Salman Khan Refuses to Share Roof With Aishwarya Rai : LOL
2007-10-03 19:40:00
Bollywood actor Salman Khan has turned down an offer from the Madame Tussauds museum in London to make his life size wax statue, his secretary said on Monday. Salman had not given any specific reason for refusing the offer but I think its because of Aishwarya's waxed statue already there. He is no more interested in sharing the roof with Aishwarya Rai, even waxed. LOL Well, this is what i
By: Bollywood Junction
Kate Hudson Dumps Dax Shepard For Older Guy
2007-09-29 03:09:00
Kate Hudson is sick of the young and is onto the old - she’s dumped Dax Shepard and has an older and richer boyfriend that is more her taste. Shepard is said to be crushed by the breakup and didn’t know he’d been replaced. “Dax got a phone call about it from a friend,” ...
By: Gossip // Malibu.in
Aishwarya Rai and Abhishek Bachchan on the set of Pink Panther
2007-09-28 18:42:00
Aishwarya Rai and Abhishek Bachchan on the set of Pink Panther in Boston, Massachussets on 25 September 2007 - Aishwarya attired in a scoop neck short ivory dress with a tuxedo waist jacket and black pumps is seen in Boston getting briefed for her next shot of the film The Next Pink Panther while Abhishek Bachchan looks on.
By: Desi Scans
Sir Ben Kingsley's Is Aishwarya's Shah Jahan!
2007-09-28 18:00:00
We all know that Aishwarya will play the eternal beauty Mumtaz Mahal in an upcoming International project. But guess who here Shah Jahan is going to be? None other than Sir Ben Kingsley! “Aishwarya and I will be playing Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal. My production company is right now working with a screenwriter. I've very clear ideas about my approach to this subject. The romance will also include Shah Jahan's abject isolation for years in a prison cell."“ I hope I continue to be remembered by Gandhi. We want to beat the monsoons when we shoot next year. I've always been very attached to India and its people. I don't get to visit the country as often as I'd like to. This is my opportunity to do so."Shooting is due to begin next year in Agra, where the Taj Mahal stands on the banks of the Yamuna river, and Fatehpur Sikri.
By: Our Bollywood
Images: Aishwarya & Abhishek Spotted In Boston
2007-09-27 11:15:00
The IT Couple of Bollywood, Abhi and Ash were spotted on the streets of Boston with their. Yes guys Abhishek still hasn’t given up his hair-band.More Pics After The Jump
By: Our Bollywood
Aishwarya To Play Mumtaz Mahal In Sir Ben Kingsley?s Production
2007-09-27 11:12:00
Only yesterday we told you about Sir Ben Kingsley’s Bollywood project. The project has been officially confirmed by Kingsley and the actress to play the lead is none other than Aishwarya Rai. Sorry Bips!Kingsley confirms that the movue is based on the Taj Mahal and Aishwarya will play the legendary Mumtaz Mahal!. Sir Ben said, “The movie is on the building of the Taj Mahal. The romance will also include Shah Jehan’s abject isolation for years in a prison cell.“I had spoken to Aishwarya last year while we were working on The Last Legion and she very generously agreed to do the movie with me. My production house is working with a screenwriter on the project. I have very clear ideas about how I want to approach the subject.”
By: Our Bollywood
Aishwarya Rai's Mobile Screensaver's
2007-09-25 09:20:00
Aishwarya Rai's Mobile Screensaver Right click on the picture and select 'Save Picture As'
By: Hot Masala Guru - South Indian actresses Photo Gal
Ash or Bipasha with Sir Ben Kinsley?
2007-09-25 08:46:00
Aishwarya Rai has successfully made a big splash asserting her position globally as the face of India. Now there is a bigger buzz doing rounds. Sir Ben Kingsley, one of the world's most honoured actors with four Academy Award nominations for his memorable role of Gandhi, might just consider either Aishwarya or Bengali sizzler, Bipasha Basu, or maybe both the Indian beauties for one of his forthcoming films. The Academy Award winning actor who was born as Krishna Bhanji to model and actress Ann Goodman, and Rahimtulla Harji Bhanji, a doctor has recently launched his first production house SBK Pictures which will make this film, starring these two girls. The film will be shot in India. There has been a buzz that Sir Ben was coming to India to visit the Taj. Now it is learnt that, his purpose of visit wasn't just sight seeing, but also to hunt for ideal locations and start the shoot in India. The film will be co-produced by Valerie Hoffman and Simone Sheffield. Though they are ...
By: Hot Bollywood Actress
Nude Aishwarya Rai in Umrao Jaan
2007-09-25 05:06:00
Nude Aishwarya Rai in Umrao Jaan, This clip is from Umrao Jaan where Abhishek Bachchan stripped her. This movie was flop but scenes were very hot.

Aishwarya walks the first ramp after marriage

2007-12-07T16:21:00.000-08:00

New Delhi, Dec 05: The face of many a brand, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan walked the ramp for the first time after her marriage to endorse the launch of a new bridal collection of luxury watches from Longines on late Wednesday.Posing happily for the shutterbugs, Aishwarya seemed very comfortable answering the questions regarding the new phase in her life and was more than willing to answer about her marriage and the speculations surrounding her pregnancy.Talking about the new change in her life, she said that she is a happy girl after her wedding. “I feel so blessed. I wish we had more time off. Abhishek and me keep talking about our honeymoon,” she said."It's very difficult to articulate, put it down in just a few sentences because it's obviously a very, very wonderful and joyous phase and I strongly recommend it," she said when asked about her feelings of being a married woman.Apart from the marital bliss, Aishwarya is also excited about her big Hollywood project, sequel to Pink Panther; The Pink Panther Deux with Steve Martin, in which she plays the female lead as a criminal expert.Her much awaited forthcoming films include Jodha Akbar by Ashutosh Gowarikar and Sarkar Raj by Ram Gopal Varma scheduled for release in early 2008.

I am very selective about work, says Aishwarya Rai

2007-12-07T16:19:00.000-08:00

Bollywood actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, who has her bag full of projects along with marital responsibilities to shoulder, says she takes up only those projects which she can handle."Whether it is films or endorsements, I am - and have been - very selective about my work. I take up work which suits and fits in my schedule," Aishwarya told IANS."I don't take projects that I cannot handle because I believe in totally fulfilling the commitments made by me," she added.The actress won the Miss World pageant in 1994 and started her stint in Bollywood with Aur Pyaar Ho Gaya.She gave hits like Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, Devdas and Dhoom-2 but was for long termed as emotionless on-screen by critics.However, Aishwarya proved her mettle by acting in films like Provoked and Guru, and said she enjoys getting into the skin of varied roles."I have always tried to pick up a variety of projects as I want to have different experiences with different projects. Also preferences for roles grow with time."She was recently in the capital to launch the bridal collection of watch brand Longines that she endorses. And like every woman, she is happy about possessing a range of them matching her various outfits."The first watch that I received was gifted to me by my family. Now, I have a variety of them in my wardrobe and I enjoy it, like any other woman.""With saris I sport timepieces with delicate and feminine dials. However, my personal favorites are watches with chunky dials."Commenting on her upcoming films she said: "It was a fantastic experience shooting 'Pink Panther 2'. It was wonderful as the schedule was just perfect for me. And 'Jodhaa Akbar' took its duration, as it is a period film."Apart from director Harald Zwart's much-talked about Hollywood flick and Ashutosh Gowarikar's historical epic, she has Ram Gopal Varma's Sarkar Raj in her kitty.

Aishwarya Rai

2007-12-07T16:15:00.002-08:00

Aishwarya Rai 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 Rahul Rawail's '…Aur Paar Ho Gaya' (1997) 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. 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. Daily Variety's (06/12/02) Derek Elley describes 'Devdas' as "some of the most sumptuous production values in Bollywood history…" Elley describes Ash as "almost Audrey Hepburn-like", Moulin Rouge director Baz Luhrmann says "I loved her in Devdas" and Julia Roberts calls her "the world's most beautiful woman".

2003 brought even more exciting opportunities. Ash became the first Indian actor to be a member of the jury at the Cannes Film Festival. Ash 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.
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 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.

Filmography

2007-12-07T16:15:00.001-08:00

Filmography 1997 : Iruvar by Mani Ratnam (in Tamil) (Telugu title: Iddaru)

1997 : Aur Pyar Ho Gaya by Rahul Rawail

1998 : Jeans by S. Shankar (in Tamil)

1999 : Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam by Sanjay Leela Bhansali (Filmfare Best Actress Award)

1999 : Aa Ab Laut Chalein by Rishi Kapoor

1999 : Taal by Subhash Ghai

2000 : Hamara Dil Aapke Paas Hai by Satish Kaushik

2000 : Mohabbatein by Aditya Chopra (cameo)

2000 : Dhai Akshar Prem Ke by Raj Kanwa

2000 : Josh by Mansoor Khan

2000 : Kandukondain Kandukondain by Rajiv Menon (in Tamil)

2000 : Sanam Tere Hain Hum by Jayant Paranji (special appearance)

2001 : Albela by Deepak Sareen

2002 : Devdas by Sanjay Leela Bhansali (Filmfare Best Actress Award)

2002 : Hum Kisise Kum Nahin by David Dhawan

2002 : Hum Tumhare Hain Sanam by K.S. Adiyaman (special appearance)

2002 : 23rd March 1931 : Shaheed by Guddu Dhanoa

2002 : Shakti (movie) by Krishna Vamshi (special appearance)

2003 : Kuch Na Kaho by Rohan Sippy

2002 : Nee Kidappen Njan Adippen: The Power by Krishna Vamshi

2003 : Dil Ka Rishta by Naresh Malhotra

2003 : Chokher Bali by Rituparno Ghosh (in Bengali)

2003 : Khakee by Rajkumar Santoshi

2004 : Kyun...! Ho Gaya Na by Samir Karnik

2004 : Bride and Prejudice by Gurinder Chadha (in English)

2004 : Raincoat by Rituparno Ghosh

2005 : Shabd by Leena Yadav

2005 : Bunty Aur Babli by Shaad Ali (special appearance)

2005 : The Heart of India by Ganapathy Bharat (in English)

2005 : Mistress of Spices by Paul Mayeda Berges (in English)

2006 : Provoked by Jagmohan Mundhra (in English) (filming)

2006 : Dhoom 2 by Sanjay Gadhvi (filming)

2006 : Umrao Jaan by J.P. Dutta (filming)

2006 : Singularity by Roland Joffé (in English)

2006 : Akbar-Jodha by Ashutosh Gowariker (pre-production)

2006 : The Last Legion by Doug Lefler (in English)

2006: "Chaos" by Coline Serreau (in English)

2006 : Indie Pop by Miko Reyes (pre-production)

2006 : Guru by Mani Ratnam (announced)

Aishwarya Rai : Biography

2007-12-07T16:12:00.000-08:00

Aishwarya Rai was born in the South indian state of Karnataka in Manglore on 1st Nov 1973. She was younger of the two siblings, her brother being 3 years elder. When she was about 4 years old, her family moved to Bombay permanently. Her father worked as a merchant navy officer. Aishwarya did her schooling at Arya Vidya Mandir, Santacruz. Academically, she did very well and earned her position as the head girl of her school. Ash chose the science stream while at DG Ruparel College, her favorite subject being Zoology. Aishwarya wanted to do medicine, but circumstances didn't let her. Instead she chose Architecture and passed the interview at Raheja College with flying colors. By this time, Aishwarya had started getting modelling assignments. She then decided to take a break from architecture and concentrate on modelling. This green-blue eyed beauty stole ads for many prestigious firms, the ones which brought her into the limelight were the garden sari and the pepsi ad. Crowned Miss femina '94 runner up, she was a hot favorite to win the miss world title, which she did ! Her beauty and charm made her India's darling. She bagged 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). In 2003 she bagged another filmfare award for best actress for the role of paro, she portrays in film Devdas. She had a well publicised affair with Salman Khan which lasted 2 years. Apparently his endless tantrums traumatized her enough to give a press conference in spring 2003 where she declared that she would never work with him again for personal reasons. In April 2003, she suffered an accident on the sets of Khakee (2003). She broke a bone in one foot and suffered severe cuts. The incident rekindled the discussion about poor safety standards on Bollywood film sets. Aishwarya's bagged a parallel role opposite 'Meryl Streep' in French director 'Coline Serreau's' Chaos. 2003 has been her annus mirabilis. On the jury at Cannes, the international festival circuit with Chokher Bali, the crossover sets of Bride And Prejudice, the cover of Time magazine. And now she's all set to waltz into Hollywood. The film trade traditionally treats its heroines as completely interchangeable assets. Aishwarya Rai is the only Indian woman in world's Top 10 looking women.

Aishwarya Rai: Movies

2007-12-07T16:11:00.000-08:00

Mohabbatein ( Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Uday Chopra, Jugal Hansraj, Jimmy Shergill, Shamita Shetty, Kim Sharma, Preeti Jhangiani, Aishwarya Rai), Shabd ( Aishwarya Rai, Sanjay Dutt, Zayed Khan), Khakee ( Amitabh Bachchan, Ajay Devgan, Akshay Kumar, Tusshar Kapoor, Aishwarya Rai), Raincoat ( Aishwarya Rai, Ajay Devgan), Kyon, Ho Gaya Na ( Aishwarya Rai, Vivek Oberoi, Amitabh Bachchan), Bride and Prejudice ( Aishwarya Rai, Martin Hendersen, Namrata Shirodkar, Meghna Kothari, Peeya Rai Choudhary, Naveen Andrews, Anupam Kher), Chokher Bali ( Aishwarya Rai, Raima Sen), Kuch Naa Kaho ( Abhishek Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai), Dil Ka Rishta ( Aishwarya Rai, Arjun Rampal, Priyanshu Chatterjee), Devdaas ( Shah Rukh Khan, Aishwarya Rai, Madhuri Dixit), Hum Kisise Kum Nahin ( Amitabh Bachchan, Sanjay Dutt, Ajay Devgan, Aishwarya Rai), Albela ( Govinda, Aishwarya Rai, Jackie Shroff), Dhai Akshar Prem Ke ( Abhishek Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai), Taal ( Aishwarya Rai, Akshaye Khanna, Anil Kapoor), Hamara Dil Aapke Paas Hai ( Anil Kapoor, Aishwarya Rai, Sonali Bendre), Josh ( Shah Rukh Khan, Aishwarya Rai, Priya Gill, Chandrachur Singh, Sharad Kapoor), Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam ( Salman Khan, Aishwarya Rai, Ajay Devgan).

About Rai

2007-12-07T16:06:00.000-08:00

Profesion Actress & Model
Nick Name Aishu
Also Known As Aish
Date of Birth November 1, 1973
Zodiac Sign Scorpio
Place of Birth Mangalore, India
Height 5' 7"
Weight 122 lbs
Eyes Blue-Green
Favorite Car Mercedes
Favorite Film Casablanca
Fluent in English, Hindi, Kannada, Tamil & Urdu
Food Habits Not fussy about food at all.
She Loves Honesty, Family, Friends, Dignity, strength of character, and Chocolates!
She Dislikes Gossip, hypocrisy & Cockroaches.
Her Dream Man Real!
Idea of Love What her parents share
Worst Weakness Willingness to take people at face value.
Best Strength Self assurance
Best Quality Genuineness! Nothing about her is plastic
Philosophy It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice
Favorite Perfume Sporty colognes for the day while working. Exotic, oriental and woody fragrances for the evenings
Turn On's Razor sharp intelligence, witty repartees.
Idea of Sexy A combo of vulnerability and intelligence.
She Admires Strength of charector
She Bbelieves in God above everything else and then herself
Family Father: Krishnaraj Rai
Mother: Vrinda Rai
Brother: Aditya Rai
Favorite Compliment A child at an orphanage told her that her warmth over shines her beauty.
Also, that she is "REAL" inside and out.
Favorite Colors White & Blue
Favorite Actor A.B, Dilip Kumar, Raj Kapoor
Favorite Actress Madhubala & Nargis
Education Arya Vidya Mandir, Santacruz, Bombay, India
Academic Record Excellent
College DG Ruparel College, Matunga, Bombay, India
Message Life’s a stage, and we’re all characters. So play your part and play it well!

Trivia Was positioned at number 3 in the Filmfare Top Ten Actress' List.[1]

Praised by several people, including Julia Roberts ([2], [3]) and film critic Roger Ebert ([4]) as the most beautiful woman in the world.

Canadian supermodel Linda Evangelista is reported to have called her "stunning".

She is said to have been offered a stint as a runway model for Roberto Cavalli.

Is the highest paid actress in the Bollywood film industry.

India Times named Aishwarya #1 on the list of the "100 Most Beautiful Indian Women in the Past Century".

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

L'Oréal signed her as its new international brand ambassador, on April 2003.

Was placed number seven on "The World’s 101 Sexiest Celebrity Bodies On Earth".

Is fluent in languages such as English, Hindi, Kannada, and Tamil.

Awards

2007-12-07T16:04:00.000-08:00

Awards

2005 2005 Zee Cine Awards - Critics' Actress of the Year
2004 World's Most Attractive Woman - HELLO! Magazine
2003 Screen Best Actress Award Devdas
2003 Screen Jodi No.1 Award with Shahrukh Khan
2003 Zee Cine Best Actress Award Devdas
2003 True Indian Actress Award
2002 RACE Best Actress Award Devdas
2002 Rajiv Gandhi Award
2001 BWSX Fantasy Award for Best Supporting Actress Mohabbatein
2000 Screen Videocon Best Actress Award Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam
2000 Filmfare Best Actress Award Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam
2000 Stardust Millennium Best Actress Award Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam
2000 Zee Lux Face of the Year
2000 Zee Cine Best Actress Award Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam
2000 IIFA Best Actress Award Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam
2000 Zee Gold Best Actress Award Taal
2000 Zee Gold Best Actress Critics Award Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam
2000 Rupa Filmgoers Millennium Best Actress Award Hum Dil De
Chuke Sanam
2000 Priyadarshini International Best Actress Award Hum Dil De
Chuke Sanam
2000 Most Beautiful International Titleholder of All Times Gold
medal winner
2000 Most Beautiful Miss World of All Times -received a perfect
score of 9.911

Debut Film: Iruvar

2007-12-07T16:01:00.000-08:00

Debut Film: Iruvar

Famous Movies: Bunty Aur Babli, The Heart of India, Shabd, Bride & Prejudice, Kyun...Ho Gaya Na, Raincoat, Khakee, Kuch Naa Kaho, Chokher Bali, Dil Ka Rishta, Shakti: The Power, 23rd March 1931: Shaheed, Hum Kisi Se Kum Nahin, Hum Tumhare Hain Sanam, Devdas, Albela, Mohabbatein, Dhaai Akshar Prem Ke, Hamara Dil Aapke Paas Hai, Josh, Kandukondain Kandukondain, Mela, Sanam Tere Hain Hum, Ravoyi Chandamama, Taal, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, Aa Ab Laut Chalen, Jeans, Aur Pyaar Ho Gaya, Iruvar

Latest Movies: Bunty Aur Babli, Shabd, Bride & Prejudice

Upcoming Movies: Singularity, Saamna, Racing the Monsoon, Chaos, The Last Legion, Windfall, Provoked, Mistress of Spices
Other Facts: She also knows classical dance

Aishwarya Rai wants to continue acting

2007-12-07T16:00:00.001-08:00

The gorgeous newly wed Aishwarya Rai Bachchan says she wants to continue acting and finds it wonderful to be married to her best friend.
Ash said she took a very important step in life by deciding to marry Abhishek Bachchan and that it turned out to be the best move.

“There is immense love and respect,” Ash was quoted in an interview to a daily.

Ash said she had no immediate plans to give up her successful acting career, although she was looking forward to having children at some time.

“In future, obviously there will be children and then I will plan my time accordingly,” Ash told the paper. In the meantime, she said she plans to continue working.

Ash also said she was excited about working with her husband in Sarkar 2 , in which she will play a powerful woman who manages mob business.

Directed by Ram Gopal Varma , the movie is a sequel to the 2005 hit Sarkar about a ruthless mob boss played by Amitabh Bachchan , Ash's father-in-law.

City guide to Tahiti - French Polynesia with information on travel and pictures

Abhishek Bachchan says it is too early to feel any change after marrying Aishwarya Rai, a news report said on Monday.
He was shooting for Laaga Chunri Mein Daag at a suburban studio and took a short break to talk.
“Give me some time. It's not like she is waiting for me when I get back home. Things around me may have changed, but I am the same old Abhishek, a Boston student once, now an actor just married. It's no big deal,” a daily quoted Abshishek as saying.
“Ash is working too, you know,” he added.

The couple will now work together in Sarkar 2 in which Aishwarya will play a powerful woman who manages mob business.
Directed by Ram Gopal Varma, the movie is a sequel to the 2005 hit Sarkar about a ruthless mob boss played by Amitabh Bachchan. The three will appear on screen together in the movie. They had earlier worked together in Bunti or Babli.
“I am looking forward to working with my wife. She is a wonderful co-star,” Abhishek said.

“But whether she will get us a dabba of home-cooked food and whether the sets will resemble our home, you've got to ask Ash,” he said.

Speaking to the press for the first time following her marriage, Aishwarya also started off by promoting brand Bachchan.
"I feel blessed, I think it's wonderful to be married to your best friend. There is immense love and respect. I have the most wonderful father-in-law and mother-in-law, who treat me like their daughter," she told.

Her effusive praise for the Bachchan brand turned to evasive circumspection, befitting an Indian bahu, when quizzed what kind of a husband was Abhishek.

"If I start on that, we'll have to get onto an autobiography… there are too many details involved. In short, I'm in a happy place."

Interestingly, Aishwarya gave an insight into Bachchan's desire to make amends for the huge controversy over the exclusive Abhishek - Aishwarya wedding guest list.

"We do hope that in future, during a festival or our anniversary, we will have a larger celebration. The family has always partied and will continue to do so."

Aishwarya denies she and Abhishek broke many hearts when they married on 20 April, 2007.

"Going by the emails and letters, people are happy for us. We saw so much happiness, both among men as well as women… So contrary to what is assumed, our marriage hasn't broken hearts. We can feel it."

Aishwarya Rai has been asked to help promote a new vibrating condom

2007-12-07T15:57:00.002-08:00

Bollywood superstar Aishwarya Rai has been asked to help promote a new vibrating condom as part of the Asian International Safe Sex campaign launched today.
The former Miss World green-eyed beauty is being feted by the World Health organization to help bolster its anti-AIDS drive by endorsing the new prophylactic which has already caused shockwaves of dismay up and down India because of claims that it is a sex toy and not a contraceptive device.
Sex toys, like pornography, are officially banned in India as immoral. But the government-owned company that is involved in marketing the new product, branded as Crezendo, contains a battery-operated ring-like device that 'merely enhances the natural experience while preventing conception and spread of pathogens'.
Aishwarya's endorsement of the condom is being touted as government-approved strategic marketing at niche secots of the market too timid or ignorant to use birth control devices.
"A superstar like Aishwarya could make or break this WHO campaign," an Inidian Health Ministry source said today.
The manufacturers, the Hindustan Latex Corporation, have said that its TV marketing son featuring the Beach Boys' "Good, Good, Good Vibrations!" is a sure-fire winner and can promote safe and responsible sex to a wide swathe of Indian society.
However, conservative sources in the country have reacted with predictable fury and said a superstar like Aishwarya could ruin her career by associating herself with such a product:
"India has banned sex toys and the vibrating condom has outraged decent people everywhere.
"What are Aishwarya's parents thinking in advising their daughter about such a folly?" said hardliner Kailash Vijayvargiya, Madhya Pradesh minister for road and energy.
A spokesman for the Bollywood megastar said today that the WHO program that has adopted the Crezendo campaign has the full backing of the UN.
"We can't see anything tacky, illegal or debauched about it."

Abhishek Bachchan: not without my wife

2007-12-07T15:57:00.001-08:00

Abhishek Bachchan: not without my wife September 25, 2007. Even six months have not elapsed since their lavish wedding and Abhishek-Aishwarya are struggling to spend time with each other because of their tight shooting schedule.
So they prioritised Sarkar Raj in which they’re acting together, over other projects in which they’re paired with other actors.
We're told he asked for time off before the South African schedule of Behl’s fantasy thriller.
So now that he’s wrapped up a schedule of Drona , AB Jr has taken off to Paris, where wife Ash has been shooting for her Hollwood flick Pink Panther 2 for about three weeks now.
And after spending a few days with her, he’ll join the Drona unit in SA. Wonder what’s next? Time off for papa Amitabh Bachchan’s first birthday after the marriage or what?
Aishwarya Rai has successfully made a big splash asserting her position globally as the face of India. Now there is a bigger buzz doing rounds. Sir Ben Kingsley, one of the world’s most honoured actors with four Academy Award nominations for his memorable role of Gandhi, might just consider either Aishwarya or Bengali sizzler, Bipasha Basu, or maybe both the Indian beauties for one of his forthcoming films. The Academy Award winning actor who was born as Krishna Bhanji to model and actress Ann Goodman, and Rahimtulla Harji Bhanji, a doctor has recently launched his first production house SBK Pictures which will make this film, starring these two girls. The film will be shot in India. There has been a buzz that Sir Ben was coming to India to visit the Taj. Now it is learnt that, his purpose of visit wasn’t just sight seeing, but also to hunt for ideal locations and start the shoot in India. The film will be co-produced by Valerie Hoffman and Simone Sheffield.

Aishwarya Rai to star in Ben Kingsley...

2007-12-07T15:56:00.000-08:00

Aishwarya Rai to star in Ben Kingsley movie on Taj Mahal Mumbai, Sept. 28 (AP): Bollywood actor Aishwarya Rai will star in a movie by Ben Kingsley on the making of the Taj Mahal, India's famous marble monument to love, a report said on Thursday.
The movie is likely to be filmed next year in Agra that is home to the Taj Mahal, The Times of India newspaper quoted Kingsley as saying in an interview.
The Taj Mahal, recently voted one of the new seven wonders of the world, was built by Mogul Emperor Shah Jahan between 1632 and 1654 for his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Soon after its completion, Shah Jahan was deposed by his son and imprisoned at the nearby Agra Fort.
``The movie is on the building of the Taj Mahal,'' said Kingsley, who is producing the film. ``The romance will also include Shah Jahan's isolation for years in a prison cell.''
Kingsley said his production house was currently working with a scriptwriter on the project.
He said Rai agreed to do the movie when he spoke to her during the filming of ``The Last Legion'' - a Hollywood epic about the Roman Empire.
Rai, a former Miss World, is a popular actor who has acted in more than 30 movies. She is one of India's better known faces overseas and has featured in advertisements for jewelry, cosmetics and soft drinks.
Kingsley was born Krishna Bhanji in Britain. His father, Rahimtulla Harji Bhanji, was of Indian descent.
Kingsley won the best-actor Oscar for Richard Attenborough's ``Gandhi'' in the 1980s. He is well known in India for his portrayal of the independence leader and champion of nonviolence.
In his latest movie, ``You Kill Me,'' Kingsley played a hit man being rehabilitated for alcoholism.

Latest News

2007-12-07T15:55:00.002-08:00

Aishwarya's "Karva Chauth" Mumbai, Oct 30: It was the first "Karva Chauth" for Amitabh Bachchan's bahurani who flew all the way from London to fast and pray for the long life of her husband Abhishek.
Aishwarya quickly wrapped up her Pink Panther shooting schedule in London to be with her husband and family here in Mumbai.
It was the first "Karva Chauth" was Aishwarya and the Bachchan family made sure that it was a memorable day.
The glittering evening at the Bachchan household was marked by the presence of actor Kirron Kher, Sonali Bendre, Amar Singh and his family and several other celebrities.
Ash's absence from hubby Abhishek's side at an auction event the night before "Karva Chauth" just added to the rumours that Ash was getting ready to fast for Abhishek's long life.
However, the event was kept private just like the much hyped Abhi-Aish wedding.
Well, Aishwarya was not the only one who's keeping a "Karva chauth". Sources said that actor Sanjay Dutt's lady love Manyata also observed her second "Karva Chauth" fast even as Sanju was away in the Yerawada jail in Pune.

Latest News

2007-12-07T15:55:00.001-08:00

Abhi-Ash visit Kadapa dargah - Oh baby! Is Aishwarya on the family way? 16th. Nov. 2007 The Bachchan family has been religiously adding to the list of holy shrines they have visited and this time star couple Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai offered prayers at the famous Amin Pir Dargah in Andhra Pradesh’s Cuddapah district. Rumours have it that daughter-in-law Aishwarya is on the family way, and the trip was to seek blessings for the mother and child. This is not the first shrine that the family has visited in the state. They had sought blessings at the Tirupati temple shortly after Abhishek and Aishwarya’s wedding this year.
While speculations about Aishwarya Rai being pregnant are rife again, we can surely tell you that the family offering prayers to all their Gods for a baby.
It is not just Abhishek and Aishwarya’s presence at the Amen Peer Dargah in Hyderabad two-days-back that indicates this, but we’ve learnt that Jaya Bachchan is keen that the baby is born within December 2008. The reason being, a specific planetary position that comes in to effect from next Thursday onwards, which would be the best time for having a baby.
Says a source, “Jupiter goes into Dhanu Rashi and stays there for one year until end of 2008. If a child is born in that period, the child will have a very strong Jupiter, like Jaya Bachchan has in her janam kundli.”
Apparently Jaya Bachchan is keen that the baby is born with a strong Jupiter positioning in its astronomical chart. The visit to the Hyderabad Dargah however was indeed a special one, which included a chaddar offering as well as some special prayers at the shrine. It was music maestro AR Rahman who suggested to the couple that they visit the dargah.
Ahmed Chisti Qadri, the kazim of the Dargah Ameer in Kadapa district of AP performed special rituals for Abhishekh and Aishwarya who brought a “chadar of flowers and silk” all the way from Bangalore .
He said, “The couple had requested me on phone to perform some rituals for the planetary disorders caused by the ‘Khuja dosham’ which they feared had come in the way of her conceiving their first child”. They had been planning to come here for almost three months.
It was Abhishek who conducted all the required prayers. Aishwarya Rai however was no allowed inside, but she paid her respects from outside.
Nevertheless, Teji Bachchan’s deteriorating health still remains a prime concern for the family. Sources add that Amitabh Bachchan was putting together huge plans to celebrate his father’s 100 th death anniversary on 27 this month. But this might be shelved depending on his mother’s health condition.

Film Subject

2007-12-07T15:49:00.000-08:00

FILM: DIRECTOR: JODHA-AKBAR -Ashutosh Gowariker GURU -Mani Ratnam UMRAO JAAN -JP Dutta LAST LEGION -Doug Lefler PROVOKED -Jag Mundhra DHOOM 2 -Sanjay Gadhvi MISTRESS OF SPICES -Paul Berges SHABD -Leena Baja RAINCOAT -Rituparno Ghosh TAJ MAHAL - IMAX G. Bharat KHAKEE -Rajkumar Santoshi KYUN, HO GAYA NA -Samir Karnik CHOKHER BALI -Rituparno Ghosh KUCH NAA KAHO -Rohan Sippy BRIDE and PREJUDICE -Gurinder Chadha SHAKTI: THE POWER -Krishna Vamshi HUM KISI SE KUM NAHIN -David Dahwan DEVDAS -Sanjay Leela Bhansali ALBELA -Deepak Sareen DHAI AKSHAR PREM KE -Raj Kanwar HAMARA DIL AAPKE PAAS HAI -Satish Kaushik JOSH -Mansoor Khan KANDUKONDAIN KANDUKONDAIN -Rajiv Menon TAAL -Subhash Ghai HUM DIL DE CHUKE SANAM -Sanjay Leela Bhansali AA AB LAUT CHALEN -Rishi Kapoor JEANS -S. Shankar AUR PYAAR HO GAYA -Rahul Rawail IRUVAR -Mani Rathnam MOHABBATEIN -Aditya Chopra HUM TUMHARE HAIN SANAM -K. S. Adhiyaman 23RD MARCH 1931: SHAHEED -Guddu Dhanoa DIL KA RISHTA -Naresh Malhotra RADHESHYAM SITARAM -Anees Bazmee RAVOI CHANDAMAMA -Jayant C Paranji
Aishwarya Rai debuted in Mani Ratnam's critically acclaimed Tamil language film, Iruvar alongside Mohanlal and Tabu in which she played a dual role. Rai's dual role in the movie was appreciated. She was introduced to Bollywood by Rahul Rawail in the film, Aur Pyaar Ho Gaya but the film did not progress due to poor publicizing of the project. Her third project, a Tamil-language film, Jeans by S. Shankar was the first commercial success in her career. In the film, she also sported a double role alongside with Prashanth. The song Poovukul Olindirukum's lyrics were based upon Rai, describing her as the eight World Wonder. The film established Rai's career in the Indian regional film industries.
Indian model and actress Aishwarya Rai was born on November 1, 1973, in Mangalore, Karnataka, India. Her mother is writer Vrinda Rai and her brother is producer Aditya Rai (older).
While in high school, Ash, also nicknamed Aishu and Gullu, was a straight-A student and popular in school. She also took classical dance and music classes, and studied architecture in college in Bombay. She began modeling at a young age
Her first major success was in the 1999 film Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam. The following year, she appeared in the extremely successful Mohabbatein. In 2002, Rai appeared with Bollywood stars Shah Rukh Khan and Madhuri Dixit in the lavishly produced Devdas, which was a major box-office success. The film attracted overseas attention as well, receiving a special screening at the Cannes Film Festival and garnering international attention for Rai.
In the past, Indian actors and actresses were celebrities in South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East, but mostly unknown to the rest of the world. Aishwarya is one of the few Indian actresses to become a Western celebrity.
In 2003, Rai was a member of the jury at Cannes. In 2004, she was chosen by TIME Magazine's Asian Edition as one of Asia's "100 Most Influential People." She was the subject of a 60 Minutes profile on January 2, 2005 - "The Most Beautiful face in the World." A month later she appeared on the Late Show with David Letterman, and on April 25, 2005, she was featured on Oprah's "Women Across the Globe" segment. A wax figure of Rai is on display in London's Madame Tussaud's wax museum.
Although frequently the subject of gossip column speculation about an imminent Hollywood career, it was only in 2004 that Rai finally acted in a foreign film, when British director Gurinder Chadha hired her to play the heroine in Bride and Prejudice, a Hollywood-funded but Bollywood-ized version of Jane Austen's classic novel, Pride and Prejudice. The movie came just shy of breaking even at the US box office but earned over 400% return on investment in global revenue.
Her next overseas venture, Mistress of Spices, written by Gurinder Chadha and her husband Paul Mayeda Berges, from the novel by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni and directed by Berges, was released in the U.K. in April 2006 to a milder critical and commercial reception but rave reviews in Middle East and Asia. [3]
Aishwarya has several other international, English-language films in the pipeline, including Provoked, and The Last Legion.
The song "Kajra Re", which Rai performed in the film Bunty Aur Babli, was voted best song of 2005 and best choreographed song of 2005 in a poll by the Hindustan Times. [4] Rai appeared at the Closing Ceremony of the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne, as part of a performance showcasing Indian culture, on behalf of the 2010 Commonwealth Games, to be held in New Delhi. For her three-minute dance performance, Rai was reportedly paid three crore rupees, the equivalent of about 600,000 U.S. dollars. Aishwarya also performed the much loved 'Kajra Re' at the Iffa awards held in Amsterdam (Holland).
Rai has won two Filmfare Awards to date:
2000, Filmfare Best Actress Award, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam 2002, Filmfare Best Actress Award, Devdas She has been nominated four times in the Best Actress category and once in the Best Supporting Actress category at the Filmfare Awards. She has also won three IIFA Awards, three Z-Gold Awards, four Star Screen Awards, an EU's Global Diversity Award, three Zee Cine Awards and a Rajiv Gandhi Award.
When the IFFA awards took place in Amsterdam, Aishwarya had a breed of tulip named after her as well.

Spotted Aishwarya at Toronto Airport

2007-12-07T15:47:00.000-08:00

Spotted! Aishwarya at Toronto Airport

December 03, 2007 15:27 IST

Reader Ashwani Dhiman, along with her children bumped into actress Aishwarya Rai [Images] Bachchan at the Toronto Airport.

The actress then posed for this picture with Ashwani's son, Ashvin and daughter, Ashley.

If you encounter/meet/see film or television personalities and take a photograph or a video of the star(s), please scan the photograph(s) and mail the pictures and video clips to us. We will feature the best images and video clips right here on Rediff Movies.

Marriage is recommended to all: Aishwarya

2007-12-07T15:45:00.001-08:00

New Delhi, Dec 5 (IANS) It seems newly wed Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is enjoying herself completely, as the Bollywood actor strongly recommends the institution of marriage to everyone."I am a happy girl, can't you make out?" beamed Aishwarya.
"
Marriage is a beautiful chapter in life. It is so blissful and wonderful...in fact difficult to articulate. I strongly recommend it to everyone. Each one of us must experience it," she told IANS Wednesday.

"Everybody was teasing me when I came here to celebrate 'karva chauth' (a Hindu ritual). But I said I have to experience it," she added.

The actress, who won the Miss World pageant in 1994 and started her stint in the Hindi film industry with "Aur Pyaar Ho Gaya," was in the capital to unveil the bridal collection of watch brand Longines.

She got married to Bollywood star Abhishek Bachchan on Feb 20, 2007.

Commenting on the response of people after her marriage she said: "Wherever we have travelled, people have showered us with their blessing. I am bowled over by their response and very strongly feel that we are a part of an extended family."

However, Aishwarya said she hasn't spent much time with her family.

"Our honeymoon was our first holiday and after that we were straight back to work. I wish I could have taken more time off. I would love to spend every minute of the day with Abhishek."

Being a workingwoman the actress agrees that marriage brings a lot of responsibilities and one has to juggle up too many things.

"I am enjoying every aspect of being married. But frankly telling being a workingwoman it is more hectic now. There is a constant race against time. I could never imagine that my hours and days would be so full."

"Although I have found the key to it - time management. It is imperative for every working individual to discover the ability of time management. You have to take time out for your maternal family, in-laws and for your own (husband-wife) relationship at the same time."

After her lead roles in hits like "Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam," "Devdas," "Dhoom 2" and "Guru", she is now all set to woo audiences in "Sarkar Raj," "Pink Panther 2" and "Jodhaa Akbar".

Why Aishwarya Rai is very selective about work

2007-12-07T15:44:00.001-08:00

The gorgeous Aishwarya Rai Bachchan says that she is very selective about work because she believes in totally fulfilling the commitments she makes.

Ash, who has her bag full of projects along with marital responsibilities to shoulder, says she takes up only those projects, which she can handle.

"Whether it is films or endorsements, I am, and have been, very selective about my work. I take up work which suits and fits in my schedule," Ash is quoted as saying by a news agency.

"I don't take projects that I cannot handle because I believe in totally fulfilling the commitments made by me," the Bachchan bahu added.

Ash said she enjoys getting into the skin of varied roles.

"I have always tried to pick up a variety of projects as I want to have different experiences with different projects. Also preferences for roles grow with time."

Ash was recently in the capital to launch the bridal collection of watch brand that she endorses. And like every woman, she is happy about possessing a range of them matching her various outfits.

"The first watch that I received was gifted to me by my family. Now, I have a variety of them in my wardrobe and I enjoy it, like any other woman."

"With saris I sport timepieces with delicate and feminine dials. However, my personal favourites are watches with chunky dials."

Commenting on her upcoming films Ash said, "It was a fantastic experience shooting 'Pink Panther 2'. It was wonderful as the schedule was just perfect for me. And Jodhaa Akbar took its duration, as it is a period film."

Apart from director Harald Zwart's much talked about Hollywood flick and Ashutosh Gowarikar 's historical epic, Ash has Ram Gopal Varma 's Sarkar Raj in her kitty.

Related
Aishwarya Rai
Jodhaa Akbar
Ashutosh Gowarikar
Ram Gopal Varma
Sarkar Raj

I am very selective about work, says Aishwarya

2007-12-07T15:40:00.000-08:00

New Delhi, Dec 6 (IANS) Bollywood actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, who has her bag full of projects along with marital responsibilities to shoulder, says she takes up only those projects which she can handle."Whether it is films or endorsements, I am - and have been - very selective about my work. I take up work which suits and fits in my schedule," Aishwarya told IANS.
"
I don't take projects that I cannot handle because I believe in totally fulfilling the commitments made my me," she added.

The actress won the Miss World pageant in 1994 and started her stint in Bollywood with "Aur Pyaar Ho Gaya".

She gave hits like "Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam," "Devdas" and "Dhoom-2" but was for long termed as emotionless on-screen by critics.

However, Aishwarya proved her mettle by acting in films like "Provoked" and "Guru," and said she enjoys getting into the skin of varied roles.

"I have always tried to pick up a variety of projects as I want to have different experiences with different projects. Also preferences for roles grow with time."

She was recently in the capital to launch the bridal collection of watch brand Longines that she endorses. And like every woman, she is happy about possessing a range of them matching her various outfits.

"The first watch that I received was gifted to me by my family. Now, I have a variety of them in my wardrobe and I enjoy it, like any other woman."

"With saris I sport timepieces with delicate and feminine dials. However, my personal favourites are watches with chunky dials."

Commenting on her upcoming films she said: "It was a fantastic experience shooting 'Pink Panther 2'. It was wonderful as the schedule was just perfect for me. And 'Jodhaa Akbar' took its duration, as it is a period film."

Apart from director Harald Zwart's much-talked about Hollywood flick and Ashutosh Gowarikar's historical epic, she has Ram Gopal Varma's "Sarkar Raj" in her kitty.

ANDY GARCIA - FASCINATING FACT 3722

2007-12-07T15:34:00.000-08:00

Pic: Andy Garcia and Dominik Garcia
World Premiere of 'This Christmas' after party held at Cabana Club
Hollywood, California - 12.11.07

ANDY GARCIA, ALFRED MOLINA, JOHN CLEESE and Bollywood beauty AISHWARYA RAI will join STEVE MARTIN, JEAN RENO and EMILY MORTIMER for the star-studded sequel THE PINK PANTHER 2.

AISHWARYA RAI - RAI ADJUSTING TO MRS BACHCHAN

2007-12-07T15:32:00.000-08:00

Caption: Aishwarya Rai. The Bollywood star has her waxwork figure unveiled at Madame Tussauds in Times Square. New York City, USA - 15.08.07

AISHWARYA RAI - RAI ADJUSTING TO MRS BACHCHAN

Newly wed AISHWARYA RAI is finding it difficult to get used to her new name following her marriage to fellow film star ABHISHEK BACHCHAN. The superstar couple tied the knot in a ceremony in Mumbai, India last month (20Apr07), the climax of three-days of festivities. But the Bollywood actress admits she still finds it strange when people use her new moniker. She says, "This is the first travel where people start calling you, 'Hello Mrs Bachchan, good evening'. "I've maybe done a double take at times, but pleasantly so, it makes us smile, so it's been good."

ABHISHEK BACHCHAN - BACHCHAN DENIES PREGNANCY REPORTS

2007-12-07T15:28:00.000-08:00

Bollywood star ABHISHEK BACHCHAN has dismissed reports his actress wife AISHWARYA RAI is pregnant. The actor married Rai in a lavish Indian ceremony in April (07) and it has been widely speculated the couple are already expecting their first child together. But Bachchan has refuted the claims, saying, "That's incorrect, there's no such good news. When there is, I will tell you."

MONTY PYTHON - CLEESE SET FOR PINK PANTHER SEQUEL

Monty Python star John Cleese is set to play Chief Inspector Dreyfus in the sequel to the remake of Pink Panther.

The Fawlty Towers actor joins a burgeoning cast of stars that MGM studios hopes will lead to yet more commercial success for the franchise.

Steve Martin will resume the role of Inspector Jacques Clouseau, while Jean Reno
and Emily Mortimer will also return.

Although the first film was panned by critics, the movie became a commercial hit and included a role for pop superstar Beyonce Knowles.

The new Pink Panther is expected to be released in 2009 and will see the team of hapless detectives trying to track a gang who have stolen the Pink Panther diamond.

Charles Cohen, from MGM, told the BBC: "Steve Martin has successfully re-energised the Pink Panther franchise.

"With this new dynamic cast, Pink Panther 2 is destined to be a commercial success and one of the most highly-anticipated films of 2009."

Bollywood actress Aishwarya Rai is also set to star in the new movie.

Bride and Prejudice Movie Review

2007-12-07T15:27:00.000-08:00

If nothing else, "Bride and Prejudice" proves that the silly, ingenuous charm of Bollywood musicals becomes tedious and even downright dumb in English.

A cross-cultural adaptation of Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice" set in modern-day Bombay, London and Los Angeles, this is a trite, flimsy, groundless romance of shallow character stereotypes, ethnic hypocrisy, and horrible songs. But it does have one saving grace in talented, stunningly beautiful Indian superstar Aishwarya Rai.

As Lalita, the most independent and worldly of five sisters whose largely traditional parents have begun trying to marry them off, Rai has a radiant screen presence as she stands in for Austen's heroine Elizabeth Bennet. But she doesn't have much to work with except personality contradictions that betray a one-dimensional script -- and a suitor who is nothing short of insufferable, played by an actor without the chops to reveal his unsuspected depth.

Despite her many lectures about appreciating the Indian lifestyle (and songs with inane lyrics like "India's the place for me/India sets you free"), Lalita spends much of her time going to "Gidget"-like beach parties (where American pop singers make unmotivated cameos) and to discos that play Euro-techno dance music. She's also the only one in her family without an Indian accent.

In the course of the film, she's also attracted exclusively to Western men, including uppity Will Darcy (Martin Henderson, "The Ring") a culturally ignorant, wealthy and arrogant surfer-cum-yuppie from California, who is such an unmitigated jerk that the only way he can become her inevitable love interest is by way of an arbitrary personality transplant half way through the movie.

Director Gurinder Chadha ("Bend It Like Beckham") intends the initial animosity between these two to be endearing, but she makes only a cursory attempt to show what draws them to each other in spite of their mutual animosity.

Even when given the perfect opportunity to delve into character development with flirting and banter as they're forced to sit together on an intercontinental airline flight, Chadha skips straight to the plane's landing 12 hours later and opts instead for a hackneyed musical montage sequence of the couple on a series of set-piece dates.

"Bride and Prejudice" is the kind of musical that doesn't integrate its songs, but stops dead in its tracks for them -- even though they don't advance the story and just reiterate what's already patently obvious. It's the kind of comedy that hinges on miscommunications that could be easily cleared up if the characters would just take 30 seconds to level with one another. And it comes up short as an adaptation as well, reducing most of Austen's witty characters to little more than witless cliches.

The one thing Chadha does do well is infuse the colorful dance numbers with a genuine Bollywood effervescence -- well, at least the ones without dumb lyrics dragging them down.

I'm all for introducing the spirit of Bollywood's better movies to American audiences (see 2002's spectacular, absolutely infectious "Lagaan"), and I'm equally keen on updating Jane Austen stories (see "Clueless" or seek out last year's little-seen but creatively modernized version of "Pride and Prejudice"). But this painfully ill-conceived overproduction isn't the way to win fans to either one.

Provoked: A True Story Movie Review

2007-12-07T15:25:00.000-08:00

The beautiful Bollywood actress Aishwarya Rai plays the victim of years of spousal abuse in Provoked: A True Story, based on a monumental U.K. court case that forever changed British laws on domestic violence. Even before watching a frame of the film, we glean that this is an important human story with major moral messages to be told. It's the kind of material that easily wins the hearts of audiences and Oscar voters alike. And yet, for all of its surface significance, the resulting on-screen effort feels largely meaningless and inconsequential.

While studying to become a lawyer, a young, traditionally minded Punjabi woman named Kiranjit (Rai) gets set up in an arranged marriage to Deepak Ahluwalia (Naveen Andrews). Deepak insists Kiranjit abandon her educational efforts so they can relocate to London. Staying true to cultural norms, Kiranjit willingly accommodates her husband's desires. Once in the big metropolis, things quickly change. Kiranjit becomes pregnant and Deepak devolves into a life of drinking, adultery, and spousal abuse.

For a decade, Kiranjit endures large doses of verbal, physical and sexual abuse at the hands of Deepak. Trapped by her old world values, Kiranjit is unable to seek the help she needs to end the cycle of violence. One night she snaps, deciding that the only way out of her horrific marriage is to set fire to her S.O.B.-of-a-husband while he sleeps. Kiranjit is arrested, convicted, and sent to a women's prison for a life sentence.

Most of Provoked transpires during Kiranjit's time in prison as she awaits the appeal of her sentence. While in lock-up, Kiranjit struggles with adapting to her new environment. She rarely speaks, and is teased by the other inmates. Kiranjit soon gains a cellmate, Veronica Scott (Miranda Richardson). Though they come from very different worlds, Kiranjit and Veronica find a common bond that provides the vehicle to help each other through their present situations. It's in these moments where Provoked shines the most. Unfortunately, these times are few and far between.

Though Provoked is based on real life events (in case you missed the title), the on-screen drama surrounding Kiranjit's imprisonment is so poorly constructed and executed, that the story never achieves the level of gravity that it should. Carl Austin and Rahila Gupta's adaptation of the autobiography to which the movie is based plays out like a campy made-for-TV movie that only scratches the surface of reality. Prison life looks easy, resembling nothing like what we know doing hard time is supposed to look like.

To tell the story of Kiranjit's abuse, director Jag Mundhra flashes back to half a dozen painful episodes of increasingly escalated violence over the ten year period. By the third example, it simply becomes too much. The beautiful Rai already makes for a sympathetic victim. In fact, she's too beautiful -- certainly not to be abused -- but she's never made to look like she's suffering. In the moments following her arrest, she's coifed perfectly -- hair and makeup done just right. Even after months in prison, she looks completely unaffected. Certainly a woman who believes she is wrongly imprisoned and out for justice would not look like she spent half the day at a salon.

With Provoked, there's just never the seriousness or grit you would expect from this kind of story. There's little fight to this film, and unfortunately, as a result, the most important message gets lost in the translation.

They will survive.

The World's Most Beautiful Woman?

2007-12-07T15:21:00.000-08:00

It's Aishwarya Rai, Queen of Bollywood

CBS) Who is the most beautiful woman in the world? Half a century ago, Hollywood would have presented her to us. Grace Kelly, Ingrid Bergman or perhaps Elizabeth Taylor.

But today? Correspondent Bob Simon reports the woman who currently holds the title, at least according to thousands of Web sites, Internet polls and even Julia Roberts, is someone you've probably never heard of.

Her name is Aishwarya Rai, and she is an actress living and working in Bombay, India. The reigning queen of Indian cinema, and also a classically trained dancer, Rai has starred in 24 films over the last seven years.

That may seem like a lot of movies, but Bollywood, India’s film capital, is famous for churning out more movies a year than Hollywood. Three new films are produced and distributed worldwide every day, attracting a global audience of 5 billion people. That’s twice the reach of Hollywood.

The reason Bollywood films have such universal appeal is because they’re squeaky-clean. There are no sex scenes, not even kissing. Every time you think someone’s going to do it, they'll burst into song instead.

"I'd assume that's really a reflection of our society," Rai says, when asked to explain the films' modesty. "Of course people kiss and of course people have a very healthy love life. This is the land of the Kama Sutra. But nevertheless, in our society you don't really see people around the street corner kissing or being extremely, overtly, physically demonstrative publicly. They do it privately but not publicly."

Unlike some of her Hollywood counterparts, Rai's very much like the women she portrays: wholesome, dutiful and deeply religious. So much so, she insisted we visit her favorite temple for this interview. It’s more than 200 years old and every week more than 100,000 people come from all over India to make offerings and pray to Lord Ganesh, the half-elephant/half-man Hindu god of happiness.

At the temple, Rai started attracting more worshippers than Lord Ganesh.

She says being treated as sort of a goddess in this way, "makes me feel guilty. I'll be very honest. When there's a distraction at the place of worship I kinda get a bit guilty. And I kind of say, 'Lord, forgive me. This isn't intended.'"

Despite the attention, Rai says she doesn’t think much about the way she looks.

"I am really OK with the way I look, It's fine," she says. "All this is transient. I mean, it's really, you know, it changes with time, and that's the external."

“Barso re” from “Guru” leads the “Top ten”

2007-12-07T15:19:00.002-08:00

“Barso re” from “Guru” leads the “Top ten”
New Delhi, Feb 17 : “Barso re” from Mani Ratnam’s “Guru” directed by A.R. Rahman and sung by Shreya Ghoshal holds the top position in the music list this week. Several new songs have made it to the list but continues to rule the charts and is number one this week too.

The top 10 Hindi songs for the week are: 1. “Barso re” - Film: “Guru”; Music Director: A.R. Rahman; Singer: Shreya Ghoshal. The hugely popular song about welcoming rain retains once again its premier position this week. 2. “Crazy kiya re” - Film: “Dhoom 2″; Music Director: Pritam; Singer: Sunidhi Chauhan. Another Aishwarya Rai song on the list.

The fast number sets your foot tapping and is a visual treat as well. 3. “Salaam-e-Ishq” - Film: “Salaam-e-Ishq”; Music Director: Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy; Singers: Sonu Nigam, Shreya Ghoshal, Kunal Ganjawala, Sadhana Sargam and Shankar Mahadevan. Lavishly shot in the true Yash Chopra style, the song has slipped down on the list. 4. “Dilli” - Film: “Delhii Heights”; Music Director: Rabbi Shergill; Singer: Rabbi Shergill. The foot-tapping beats and Shergill’s capturing voice make “Dilli” an above average number and quite apt for the movie. The song is meant for Delhiites. 5. “Chakna” - Film”; “Namaste London”; Music Director: Himesh Reshammiya; Singer: Himesh Reshammiya. It is a dance number already doing the rounds in discotheques. The song has beats that make sure listeners enjoy the track even if they are not on a dance floor. 6. “Rozana” - Film: “Nishabd”; Music Director: Vishal Bharadwaj; Singer: Amitabh Bachchan. “Rozana” can be termed as an awesomely romantic and sensuous number. 7. “Main hoon don” - Film: “Don”; Music Director: Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy; Singer; Shaan. The listeners are not yet bored of the stylish song shot on Shah Rukh Khan. 8 “Sajani vaari” - Film: “Honeymoon Travels Pvt. Ltd”; Music: Vishal-Shekhar; Singers: Sunidhi Chauhan and Shekhar Ravjiani. It’s a great track with a folk touch. Sunidhi is at her best in the song that has an amazing dance vibe. 9. “Tere bin” - Film: “Bas Ek Pal”; Music Director: Mithoon; Singer: Atif Aslam. The love song burst on the scene months ago and listeners are still lapping it up. 10. “Maula mere” - Film: “Anwar”; Music Director: Mithoon; Singer: Roop Kumar Rathod. The Sufi number laced with romance is doing well.

Sanjay Dutt and Aishwarya Rai honoured the “Star of Year” award

2007-12-07T15:19:00.001-08:00

Sanjay Dutt and Aishwarya Rai honoured the “Star of Year” award
Mumbai, Feb 21 : “Lage Raho Munna Bhai” bagged Sanjay Dutt “Star of year” while AishwaryaRai was also honoured with the same for her stunning performance in “Dhoom 2″ at the MAX Stardust Awards held in Mumbai. The glittering award function on Feb 18 was overshadowed by news of Saif Ali Khan’s illness - he was rehearsing for his performance at the awards when he complained of chest pain and was rushed to hospital.

Saif won the ‘best actor in a negative role’ award for his awesome performance in “Omkara”. Director Rajkumar Hirani was honoured with the ‘dream director’ trophy for “Lage Raho Munna Bhai”.

“Omkara” was declared the ‘hottest film’ and Sanjay Gadhvi ‘hottest director’ for making “Dhoom 2″.

While Abhishek Bachchan got the ‘best actor in a supporting role male’ award for “Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna”, Ayesha Takia won the ’supporting role female’ award for “Dor”.

The ‘editor’s choice for the best performance of the year’ went to Kareena Kapoor for “Omkara” and for ‘best director’ to Vishal Bharadwaj for the same film.

In the special awards section, Mithun Charaborty was declared ‘role model of the year’ and Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s “Rang De Basanti” ‘pride of the industry’.

Shiney Ahuja and Kangana Ranaut were awarded in the ’superstar of tomorrow’ category for their impressive work in “Gangster - A Love Story”.

Shaad Randhawa, who played Kangana’s possessive boyfriend in “Woh Lamhe”, got the ‘new menace award’.

Kunal Kapoor and Gul Panag received ‘breakthrough performance’ awards for “Rang De Basanti” and “Dor”.

In the music category, composer Mithoon bagged the ’standout performance by a music director’ award for “Ek Pal” and Virag Mishra won ’standout performance by a lyricist’ award for his song “Zinda hoon main” from “Zinda”.

Though Saif’s absence was felt, performances by Kareena, Lara Dutta, Imran Hashmi and Kangana Ranaut kept the audience entertained at the event attended by amongst others Amitabh Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai, Preity Zinta, Sanjay Dutt and John Abraham.

Hollywood calling Aishwarya Rai…

2007-12-07T15:15:00.000-08:00

Hollywood calling Aishwarya Rai…
Los Angeles, Feb 27 : Aishwarya Rai is quite in demand in the Hollywood Films even after her engagement with Junior Big-B Abhishek Bachchan. The Bollywood queen continues to get offers from Hollywood despite getting engaged to Abhishek Bachchan, says her international manager Simone Sheffield.

Rubbishing reports that the engagement had spiked Aishwarya’s Hollywood prospects, Sheffield reported: “Everyone is thrilled with her engagement and we have received thousands of email and cards from her well-wishers.”

Aishwarya is one of the few Indian actresses known in Hollywood, particularly after her “Bride and Prejudice”. Her “Last Legion” is releasing in Britain, Germany, Italy and Spain in April. She also got an offer to act in “Provoked”, which got rave reviews at film festivals worldwide. “Provoked” is also slated for an April release in the US, Britain and India during the Easter weekend, Sheffield said.

Asked if Aishwarya has any future in Hollywood, Sheffield said: “Yes, by all means. But it is totally up to her what films she chooses to accept. “She got many offers but she did not accept the roles due to the subject matter, script or schedule. It will take an extra special film to get her back here working in Hollywood in the future.” She also said that Aishwarya was being considered for the roles for not only her looks but acting skills as well. “Her acting abilities are subtle, quiet yet strong and her beauty just screams in your face. But take note, she has done quite a few films that downplay her beauty. To Aishwarya, beauty is temporary but real beauty is within and eternal.” She admits that her films have not done extraordinarily well but that critics have been supportive of her. “Her films did just okay but she received the most encouraging reviews. The critics have been good to her (in Hollywood) and looking forward to her future Hollywood releases. When she makes a live appearance, top photographers make it a point to be present there.”

Aishwarya Rai steals the show at ‘Provoked’ premier

2007-12-07T15:14:00.000-08:00

Aishwarya Rai steals the show at ‘Provoked’ premier
Bollywood star Aishwarya Rai came in for praise for her role in the British film “Provoked” on the life of an NRI Kiranjit Ahluwalia who set her husband afire 11 years ago after suffering at his hand for a decade

“I cried seeing the film as I re-lived every moment of it.. I am impressed with Aishwarya’s acting of the role of Kiranjit and I am satisfied with the film,” said 51-year-old Kiranjit, while sharing the platform with Aishwarya Rai, the director of the film Jag Mundhra and actress Nandita Das, at
the Court House Kempenski here last night.

Kiranjit was presented with a cheque for 5,000 pounds and promise of a 1 per cent of the box office returns for her and the South Hall Black Sisters who had campaigned her cause.

Kiranjit made legal history 15 years ago when she was acquitted of murdering her husband.
She hoped that the film would save many other women in Asian community from such violence.

Provoked stars former Miss World Aishwarya Rai as Ms Kiranjit Ahluwalia, alongside the British actors Miranda Richardson, who plays a prison cellmate, and Robbie Coltrane, who plays the barrister who helped Kiranjit with her landmark appeal.

Asked what prompted her to take up the role of Kiranjit, Aishwarya Rai said “This was the story needed to be told to larger audience. As Kiranjit Ahluwalia herself said it was extremely emotional journey to re-live her life. This is also the reason why the film is being dubbed in several Indian languages including Hindi, Punjabi and Tamil.”

Jag Mundhra, the director of the film, said “Women from all walks of life, all colour, all races and backgrounds can relate to the story. Some have already come up to me saying they watched their own life. Without doubt this will resonate beyond Asian women to women in general.”
In India special screening of the film was organised for the family of the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and the response had been wonderful, Mundhra said.

According to Sunanda Murali Manohar, producer of the film, Rani Jethmalanij, leading lawyer and activist, told her after seeing the film that the film had accomplished in two hours what she had been trying to portray for 20 years - marital violence and suffering faced by women.
Kiranjit said “It is important to raise this issue and film is the best way to do it. There is a moral and this is a real story.”

Kiranjit had a privileged upbringing in Punjab. By the time of her arranged marriage to Deepak Ahluwalia, her English-educated husband, in 1979, she had Four A levels and was studying for a law degree.

When he began raping and beating her regularly in their home in West London, she found that she had nowhere to turn. Her own family and her in-laws were unwilling or unable to help.
After ten years she snapped. She placed a blanket soaked in petrol over the bedclothes that covered her husband’s feet as he slept, lit a match and ran into the garden with her three-year-old son. Neighbours heard her husband’s screams and he died of his burns six days later.

Kiranjit was sentenced to life imprisonment at Lewes Crown Court on December 7, 1989. “I lost my faith in British law,” she said. “In 1989 people knew nothing. The English system failed to understand English-Asian culture.”

Three years after the trial, a campaign by the Southall Black Sisters, a charity that was founded to fight discrimination against women, put the case before the Court of Appeal.
Led by Lord Taylor of Gosforth, then the Lord Chief Justice, the court quashed the conviction, ruling that there was evidence suggesting that the accused was suffering a “major depressive disorder” at the time of the killing.

At the re-trial in September 1992 at the Old Bailey, Kiranjit’s plea of manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility was accepted. The judge sentenced her to three years and four months in prison - the exact time that she had already served.
Her appeal and re-trial are now part of every basic criminal law text

Abhishek weds Aishwarya Rai …finally

2007-12-07T15:11:00.000-08:00

Colour, confusion and crowds… It was every bit the grand filmy wedding as Abhishek Bachchan, astride a horse, wearing an off-white sherwani and a white turban bedecked with flowers, arrived on a hot Friday evening to wed Aishwarya Rai.

Bollywood’s power couple finally tied the knot in a grand ceremony that held much of the nation in thrall - never mind if the only details of the closely guarded event that filtered out were grainy zoom shots from TV cameras stationed across the road.

Aishwarya reached the Bachchans’ Juhu residence Prateeksha in a silver Mercedes decorated with flowers along with her mother and brother.

At almost the same time, the barat left the other Bachchan bungalow Jalsa nearby, with a visibly anxious Amitabh Bachchan, complete with a saffron turban, ushering his guests into the waiting Volvo buses that would take them to the wedding venue.

His face covered with a sehra of white flowers, Abhishek did a small jig before getting off the bus and waving cheerily and then getting on to his horse again at Prateeksha.

While photographers scrambled to train their cameras at the goings-on, curious stargazers climbed up trees, railings and even hoardings to get a first-hand view.

Amid the sea of saffron turbans sported by the baratis, several close friends like yesteryear actor Danny Denzongpa, industrialist Anil Ambani and director Goldie Behl could be seen.

The Bollywood celebrities who arrived to bless the couple also included Sonali Bendre, Preity Zinta, Karan Johar, Ajay Devgan and Kajol.

With so many high-profile guests, including Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mulayam Singh Yadav and Samajwadi Party leader Amar Singh, at least 1,000 security personnel swarmed both the flower bedecked Bachchan homes. The road outside Prateeksha was blocked.

Friday’s wedding was the climax of three-day festivities that included a sangeet and a mehndi ceremony that were equally secretive.

The buzz around the Abhi-Ash marriage started last year and had been steadily getting louder even though the Bachchans never announced it officially because they wanted to keep it a private affair.

TV shots and newspaper pictures of guests, who kept floating in and out of their house from Wednesday, were the only proof that the big fat Indian wedding was finally taking place.

Both the Bachchan residences were turned into fortresses and for the uninvited, getting in was next to impossible.

The Bachchans not only took care of their own privacy, they were thoughtful enough not to disturb their neighbours - the lawns at the venue were covered with soundproofed, air-conditioned tents.

Members of the film fraternity who made it to the guest list showed cooperation towards the first family of Bollywood - none of the invitees breathed out a single detail about the wedding.

“They have invited all those people who are emotionally close to them,” Amar Singh said in an interview to a TV channel in an apparent explanation for some conspicuous absentees like neighbour Hrithik Roshan and all the Khans.

Fans and mediapersons who had logged on to Aishwarya’s official site also faced disappointment as they found it temporarily closed.

“This site is temporarily unavailable. Please do not call or e-mail but check back again next month. Thank you,” said a message apparently posted by Aishwarya.

Whether the wedding of the year was accessible to all or not, the couple’s many fans just hope that they live happily ever after… Indo-Asian News Service

Abhishek, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan pray at Tirupati temple

2007-12-07T15:06:00.000-08:00

Newly-wed Bollywood star couple Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai Sunday prayed at the Tirupati temple here, making their first public appearance after their high-profile wedding two days ago.

Accompanied by family members and friends, the couple spent 20 minutes at the Ranganayaka Mandapam of the temple and prayed to Lord Balaji, the presiding deity. To the chants of Vedic hymns by 11 priests, the couple offered prayers for a happy married life.

A smiling Aishwarya was clad in a golden coloured sari and sported the traditional vermilion mark on her forehead signifying marriage, while Abhishek was attired in a white kurta pyjama.

Both cheerfully waved to the huge crowds in the temple complex.

Abhishek’s father and Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan and his mother Jaya Bachchan also prayed at the temple.

Among others in the entourage were Abhishek’s sister Shweta, her children, industrialist Anil Ambani, his wife Tina and politician Amar Singh.

Hundreds of devotees scrambled to catch a glimpse of the newly-weds. Security personnel had a tough time keeping the crowds at bay.

The Bachchans flew into Renigunta airport near here in the morning by a chartered aircraft from Mumbai and drove to the temple. After spending two hours in the temple town, they flew back to Mumbai.

The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD), which manages the affairs of the temple, had made elaborate arrangements for the VIP guests.

Amitabh, a staunch devotee of Lord Balaji, visited the temple April 15. He had also placed the first wedding invitation card at the feet of the deity seeking blessings for the couple.

Amitabh, Anil Ambani and Amar Singh had then each donated Rs.5.1 million each to the temple trust for education of poor children and treatment of poor patients.

The Bollywood icon had also visited the temple in December 2005 to pray after recovering from serious health problems.

About 50,000 people pray at the temple every day. On special occasions the number crosses the 100,000 mark.

Indo-Asian News Service

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Amitabh Bachchan has high hopes from Aishwarya

2007-12-07T15:01:00.002-08:00

Mumbai, April 30 : The Big B Amitabh Bachchan expects Aishwarya Rai to be an Ideal “Bahu”. An Exclusive Interview of Amitabh Bachchan after Abhi-Ash’s wedding.

In the afterglow of the AbhiAsh wedding, Amitabh Bachchan says he is looking forward to his new daughter-in-law bringing more happiness into the family.

“We’re happy that the union has taken place. I’m sure there’ll be even more happiness in the house because of Aishwarya. There were some truly heart-warming moments during the wedding and I’d like to believe they were moments that will remain with us for the rest of our lives,” says Amitabh .

On the much-debated guest list, he said: “I really couldn’t go beyond the list that we had. And in any case everyone from Shah Rukh Khan and Hrithik Roshan to Salman Khan have sent good wishes.

“If we invited all the friends of all the hosts, the guest list would’ve run into 20,000 people. The family decided that an event like our children’s wedding couldn’t be held in a hotel. It was too impersonal a venue. We decided to have an intimate family gathering.”

Excerpts:

Q: How does it feel to have Aishwarya Rai in the house?

A: It’s wonderful! I’m sure there’ll be even more happiness in the house because of her.

Q: Will Aishwarya assume the Bachchan name on the passport? Would you like a working daughter-in-law?

A: I’ve no problem with whatever name she keeps. As far as her continuing to work is concerned, Jaya and I have no problem with that. It’s for Aishwarya and Abhishek to decide.

Q: Were you happy with the wedding?

A: Yes, by the grace of god everything went off well. We’re happy that the union has taken place. There were some truly heart-warming moments during the wedding and I’d like to believe they were moments that will remain with us for the rest of our lives.

Q: There were many people who felt hurt because they couldn’t come to the wedding.

A: Let me put my circumstances before you, and leave it to you and the world in general to judge and sentence us. We were dealing with a marriage and a guest list that was going out from seven privileged personalities and celebrities - my late father, Harivanshrai Bachchan, a literary giant who has his own admirers in the literary world… then my mother, Teji Bachchan, who has relatives friends and associates going back to 90 years.

There was Jaya, a personality in her own right with a large circle of relatives and friends, there were Abhishek and Aishwarya and there was Amar Singh and then finally there was yours truly… These were the hosts to the wedding. Please tell me, how do we even begin to invite all the people who are associated with these seven people?

Q: I can’t imagine!

A: Neither could we. If we invited all the friends of all the hosts, the guest-list would’ve run into 20,000 people. Where would we have accommodated so many people in our home? In a hotel? No hotel in India could accommodate 20,000 people.

In any case, the family decided that an event like our children’s wedding couldn’t be held in a hotel. It was too impersonal a venue. So should we have had the wedding at the Bandra Kurla Complex like the Filmfare awards night? We needed two acres of land for such a guest list. Where do we provide air conditioning to so many people in this heat? How would I’ve accommodated and fed 20,000 people? I’d rather give that kind of money to charity.

Q: Makes sense.

A: The most crucial factor while deciding the guest-list was my critically ill mother. In the last year, we haven’t celebrated Diwali, Holi or my father’s birth anniversary in Lucknow. We didn’t want to have any celebration when my mother is lying in the hospital. At the same time, Abhishek is my only son and it was his only wedding and the happiest moment in his life. How could we ignore that moment in his life? How could we deny him that moment of joy? This is what the circumstances were.

We decided to have an intimate family gathering. Aishwarya’s family and we decided to have a common wedding card and a common venue. And we chose friends who were absolutely impossible to ignore. Whatever we did, we did it with the concurrence of both our families. We’re happy with our decision. I’d like to believe that the industry too would share our happiness.

Q: But some of your colleagues are hurt because they weren’t invited.

A: May be they are. May be they aren’t. Either way I’m fine with it. I respect their sentiments and I expect them to respect mine. If they’re offended because they weren’t invited, then they weren’t my friends in the first place. I really couldn’t go beyond the list that we had. And in any case everyone from Shah Rukh Khan and Hrithik Roshan to Salman Khan have sent good wishes.

Q: What about the accusation that a section of the media was manhandled?

A: There was a virtual assault on our privacy. I had 40 cars following us when I was driving Aishwarya and Abhishek home after the bidaai (leave taking). We were bringing the new Mrs. Bachchan home. It was a big moment for us. The auspicious time to reach home was 6.57 p.m. before sunset. We were stuck in a traffic jam and desperate to make it on time.

In the middle of this Amar Singh needed urgent medical attention. At 6.55 p.m., just when I’m about to enter Prateeksha, 50 photographers charged towards us and wouldn’t let us move. I had a sick person who desperately needed a doctor and a bride who needed to get to her sasural (in-laws’). And we couldn’t move! Do you know what that felt like?

Q: That’s a terrible situation to be in.

A: The worst was yet to come. After the wedding, late at night, Aishwarya and Abhishek wanted to visit the hospital to take my mother’s blessings. But the couple was stranded in the car. They couldn’t get out of the car. I was reminded of the time when I fell ill and my stretcher couldn’t be brought out of the ambulance for nearly half an hour.

My mother is now oblivious to her surroundings. She wouldn’t even have known what’s happening. But Abhishek and Aishwarya wanted to touch her feet. I visit her every day and she can’t even recognise me. Can you imagine how frustrating it is? Every day I go to my mother and feel so helpless. Then I’ve to change my mood to comply with the demands of other activities in my life.

Does anyone know what a physical and psychological strain I’m going through? And then to have people shouting and abusing me in front of my own home! It’s unfair.

Amitabh Bachchan has high hopes from Aishwarya

2007-12-07T15:01:00.001-08:00

Amitabh Bachchan has high hopes from Aishwarya

Aishwarya Rai v/s Rest of Bollywood

2007-12-07T14:42:00.000-08:00

It was during the shooting of Chalte Chalte, that Salman Khan got into the sets and accused Shahrukh Khan of getting “too friendly” with his girlfriend Aishwarya Rai. Aishwarya was replaced with Rani Mukherjee and then started a big rivarly in Bollywood … Salman and SRK. Since then, rumor has it that Aishwarya Rai and most of the Bollywood biggies never saw eye to eye.

Aamir Khan vowed never to work with Ash for personal issues. Hrithik Roshan ’s dad thought Ash was too old to work with Hrithik. Salman Khan was obviously not in the list of probable co-stars after their affair went into bad weather. Shahrukh Khan ’s last movie with Ash was Devdas and that was all for him. So Ash went ahead and did movies with not-such-a-star Abhishek, Sanjay Dutt, Zayed Khan .. etc etc. Oh .. we forgot Vivek Oberio. And this was definitely not working.

Aishwarya then moved to Hollywood .. did some desi roles for desi directors. And then Kajra re happened and then Abhishek Bachchan and 30 and Dhoom2 finally happened. Aishwarya had to get married and settle down. Amitabh-Abhishek and SRK’s relationship went wrong during Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna. Camps were formed. SRK-Preity-Rani-Karan in one and Amitabh-Abhishek in another.

And then the marriage happened and guess what.. Shahrukh Khan, Hrithik (Abhisheks childhood friend), Salman Khan, Saif, none of the leading females … no one .. no one was invited. The Khans met in a private party .. the old rivalries between Salman SRK was forgetten. And rumor has it that they decided to boycott Aishwarya and Abhishek. So now we will have Ash working with only Abhishek in the forthcoming movies. Akbar Jodha is almost done .. so discount that.

And so if things go on like this .. we will soon see only Abhi-Ash movies and possible that Aishwarya Rai will soon retire. But how the world will see it unfolding is :

Releases:
Akbar Jodha
Sarkar 2 (Abhishek, Ash , Amitabh)
Abhishek-Ash’s new born

Ash will take a years break and possibly never come back to Bollywood !! We as fans would love to see more of her .. but looks like the end of the beautiful career is almost over. It was a nice ride and we hope that the forthcoming movies have the best Aishwarya has to offer.

Aishwarya, Abhishek, Hrithik party as Jodha Akbar is finally complete

2007-12-07T14:33:00.001-08:00

Aishwarya Rai in 'Jodhaa Akbar' promo. Photo Credit: Sawf News / TV Grab
16 November 2007 (Sawf News) - Aishwarya Rai, Hrithik Roshan and Ashutosh Gowarikar, along with their spouses, celebrated the completion of the UTV magnum opus Jodhaa Akbar with a wrap up party Monday, November 12.

The stars finally relaxed after an arduous assignment. They reminisced over the filming and then hit the dance floor.

Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai in 'Jodhaa Akbar' promo. Photo Credit: Sawf News / TV Grab
According to a Mumbai Mirror source, "Hrithik, Abhishek and Ash were seen making the best out of their dancing skills. Though Hrithik and Susanne left a bit early, Ash and Abhishek continued to have a great time. Abhishek took over as the DJ while Ash and the rest of the gang were seen dancing to the songs that he played."

The production of the film, which was initially set for release during the Id / Diwali period, was plagued by cost and schedule overruns attributed to the complexity of making a period drama with war scenes set in the sixteenth century.

Aishwarya Rai in 'Jodhaa Akbar' promo. Photo Credit: Sawf News / TV Grab
The film is a mix of facts and fiction and dwells on how a political alliance through an arranged marriage between Jodhaa (Aishwarya) and Akbar (Hrithik) turned into love and first bonded the Mughal and Rajput empires and then the two communities - Hindu and Muslim.

Shooting war scenes involving horses and elephants and authentically recreating the Moghul period to the exacting standards of director Ashutosh Gowarikar proved challenging.

Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai in 'Jodhaa Akbar' promo. Photo Credit: Sawf News / TV Grab
The release date of the film was put back to January 25 and at one point even that had looked like an unattainable target.

Initially budgeted at Rs 50 crore the film is now estimated to have cost Rs 60 crores.

Aishwarya Rai in 'Jodhaa Akbar' promo. Photo Credit: Sawf News / TV Grab
Gowarikar gave a short speech at the Monday bash in which he acknowledged the delays and thanked Hrithik and Aishwarya for their patience and co-operation.

Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai at Gangotri Music Launch: Photos

2007-12-07T14:27:00.000-08:00

Amitabh Bachchan, Aishwarya and Abhishek Bachchan at Gangotri music launch. Photo Credit: IANS
18 November 2007 (Sawf News) - The Bachchans were out in full force at the launch of the music of the Bhojpuri film Gangotri at Club Millennium, Mumbai on Saturday, November 17.

The film starring Amitabh Bachchan is a sequel to Ganga and has been directed by Deepak Sawant who was AB's make up man earlier. Other stars in the film include Manoj Tiwari and Bhumika Chawla.

Aishwarya and Abhishek Bachchan at Gangotri music launch. Photo Credit: IANS
Speaking on the occasion, Aishwarya referred to Deepak Sawant as party of the family.

"I would like to wish every one associated to this film. And dada you are part of the family and we are here for you," she said.

"Dipak Sawant and my time spent in industry in almost the same," added Amitabh.

While Amitabh was formally turned out on the occasion in a double breasted suit with a white shirt sans a tie, Abhishek and Aishwarya were informally attired in jeans and white top / shirt.

Amitabh Bachchan, Aishwarya and Abhishek Bachchan at Gangotri music launch. Photo Credit: IANS
Its been some time since Abhihsek paid a visit to the barber but that is because the long hair are mandated by his role in the underproduction film Drona in which he is paired opposite Priyanka Chopra.

The Bachchans and Rais watch Saawariya

2007-12-07T14:26:00.000-08:00

The Bachchans and Rais watch Saawariya

IndiaFM
Tuesday, 27 November , 2007, 09:35

On Saturday night, Aishwarya Rai's parents came together with the Bachchan family, minus Jaya, for a very special screening of Saawariya at Yashraj Films. Jaya was unable to attend as she was unwell.

Ranbir, Sonam & Salman party with cricketers | Sonam Kapoor launches new hair products from Dove

Director Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Sonam Kapoor were present for the occasion. But the film's leading man Ranbir Kapoor missed the chance to watch the film with the Bachchans because he was at work. As luck would have it he was shooting in the vicinity for Yashraj Films's next.

Song & dance in Bhansali's movies | Images: Music launch of Sanjay Bhansali's Saawariya

Spotted: Saawariya's lead pair on the small screen | A sneak peek at Saawariya's sets

Ranbir rushed to the screening just before it began. Amitabh Bachchan, who attended the Indian Television Academy awards, earlier that evening, was on time as always. While Abhishek and Aishwarya sat in one corner, the film's nervous director Sanjay Bhansali could be seen huddled nervously with the Big B, who couldn't take his eyes off the screen.

Stills from Sanjay Bhansali's Saawariya | Click here to download the wallpapers

The next morning, Amitabh sent chocolates and a beautifully-worded letter to both Ranbir and Sonam. "It's the most beautiful gift I've received in my life," gushes Sonam "It's hard to believe the praise that Bachchan saab has lavished on me. I don't deserve it," said an emotional Ranbir.

Making it to the Most-Sexy list

2007-12-07T14:04:00.000-08:00

Making it to the Most-Sexy list does little to get you ahead of others in the film industry's cast system. Rachit Gupta examines the Why factor

ipasha Basu was recently voted the Sexiest Asian woman by a leading newspaper named Eastern Eye in UK. Madhuri Dixit followed close at number two, Priyanka Chopra at three and Aishwarya Rai and Shilpa Shetty among the top five. Such titles are not new -- Indian screen divas have earned the tag time and again but contrary to popular beliefs, these sexy tags do little to help their acting careers.
"Being featured on a list that crowns you with a most-sexy title is good only for an actress's image. The only good thing it does (for an Indian actress) is that it gets her media attention which is always helpful. No matter how many times Bipasha is voted the sexiest woman alive it won't help her acting career," says N.P.Yadav a senior trade analyst from the Hindi film industry. According to Yadav, "The tag does not guarantee a bigger paycheque… what does is professional success," says Yadav.
And it is not even a virtue that can always be cinematically exploited. Vivek Agnihotri chose to have Bipasha in a deglamourised look for his Dhan Dhana Dhan Goal despite her sex-symbol image. "In Goal, Bipasha has an earthy look because that was what her character demanded," said Agnihotri.
There are, however, certain advantages, point out Abbas of the Abbas-Mustan duo. "The world is watching us and with so many of our young talents being featured on these lists, we stand to gain.
It tells the world and the media that Indians can hold their own against Hollywood celebrities,” says Abbas.

But beyond their glamourous and sexy image, Indian actresses fail to cope with gender bias as the men in the industry take home all the big bucks. “If Aishwarya Rai charges 2 crore for a film with say, SRK, in all likelihood, he will earn five to six times more than her,” revealed Yadav.
Dream Girl Hema Malini and Sridevi were the only two actresses who were able break this stereotype. According to Yadav, Hema Malini charged a sum of Rs 14 lakh in her prime, at a time when the top billed superstar Rajesh Khanna was charging a similar fees. Sridevi on the other hand charged a whopping Rs 40 lakh when Amitabh Bachchan, Sanjay Dutt, Sunny Deol and other top billed actors of that time were charging Rs 30 to 40 lakh.
Bipasha Basu
"Bipasha is undoubtedly one of the hottest Indian actresses today. She has a massive sex appeal and the biggest contributor to that has to be Bipasha's personality. She's not your traditional fair maiden with candyfloss appeal. Her dusky appearance coupled with a great body give her an inimitable aura. Bipasha is a head turner and just her presence can leave you mesmerised. No doubt she was voted the sexiest Asian woman."
- Vivek Agnihotri, Director of Dhan Dhana Dhan Goal
Billing: Bipasha Basu is still to make a name for herself as a lead actress but her simmering sex appeal makes her a hot favourite as ‘item girl’ or an arm candy at best. She currently charges anywhere between Rs 70 lakh to Rs 1 crore for a film depending on the banner and the size of the production.

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan
"Aishwarya has internationally-acceptable looks. In fact, she can pull off playing a Spanish or even a Brazilian character. As a result she does not have to restrict herself to the stereotype Indian roles. Her beauty is universal and her poise and the tremendously elegant way in which she carries herself makes her popular throughout the world."
- Jag Mundhra,Producer/Director, Provoked
Billing: Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has worked in international projects like Provoked, Pink Panther and Bride & Prejudice. In Bollywood she is one of the top billed actresses today and charges anywhere between a crore to two and a half crore for a film.

Shilpa Shetty
"Shilpa Shetty is one of the most beautiful actresses from Bollywood today. Although she has not been a part of great hits, she has still done some very good films. Be it her films or her stint in Celebrity Big Brother, the reason Shilpa was loved so much was because she chose to be unpretentious. No second thoughts about her body, Shilpa truly is one of the sexiest women around and her nice and honest personality just make her a very charming person."
- Sanjay Kapoor,Actor
Billing: Shilpa Shetty, though she's been a part of successful films, never quite made it to the big league. Her recent acclaim with the Celebrity Big Brother win has not translated into another mega-success in Bollywood. Her demands for a crore or two have been turned down by producers since Shilpa is not considered superstar material in India.

Priyanka Chopra
"Priyanka Chopra has reached new levels of popularity in both India and overseas because she has a perfect blend of good looks and amazing confidence. She's been a Miss World and has the looks to match up to any international star, but beyond her looks it's her confidence that attracts the youth to her. She is an enterprising woman and that contributes a great deal to her sex appeal and popularity."
- Director Abbas of the Abbas-Mustan duo from Aitraaz.
Billing: Priyanka Chopra has made a name for herself with a series of hits like Don, Krissh and Mujhse Shaadi Karogi. She now charges a crore upwards for her films, depending upon the production size and banner behind the film.

Madhuri Dixit
"Madhuri Dixit is the true energy of Indian films. She is the symbol of purity, divinity and sensuality. Unlike contemporary actresses Madhuri does not need to wear a one-inch skirt or a small top - her eyes and smile are enough incentive for a man to be fascinated"
- Jackie Shroff, Actor.
Billing: Madhuri Dixit counted among the most celebrated Indian actresses of all time makes a comeback with Aaja Nachle. In her prime, almost a decade ago, Madhuri was known to charge anywhere around Rs 50 lakh and more.

Ash-Abhi’ Join AIDS Campaign

2007-12-07T14:03:00.000-08:00

Aishwarya Rai bonanza in early 2008

2007-12-07T14:00:00.000-08:00

It would be quite a handful for Aishwarya Rai Bachchan fans in early 2008 as two of her films would be hitting the marquee in quick succession.

25th January 2008 has been booked for the release of Ashutosh Gowarikar 's Jodhaa Akbar which features Ash opposite her Dhoom 2 star Hrithik Roshan .

Then Ash gets to appear in a Bachchan family photo frame with the release of Ram Gopal Varma ’s Sarkar Raj , which is expected to arrive on 8th February, just a fortnight after ‘Jodhaa Akbar’.

Though she is not paired opposite Abhishek Bachchan in the film, Ash is said to be playing a powerful character in the Sarkar sequel.

Currently these are the only two films for which Ash has worked in the recent past though talks are on between her and Rohan Sippy for the Sriram Raghavan film that stars John Abraham in the lead.

Aishwarya Rai makes a special request to Bhansali

2007-12-07T13:59:00.001-08:00

On behalf of herself and the Bachchan family, Aishwarya Rai has made a special request to filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali .

The request is to see Bhansali’s latest film Saawariya which has been a subject of both criticism and praise from critics.

Though the Bachchans were invited to the premiere of ‘Saawariya’, they could not attend the event because Big B’s ailing mother was in critical condition.

Many days after the film’s release, Aishwarya Rai called Bhansali requesting him to organize a special screening of the film for the Bachchan family.

Needless to say, Bhansali readily agreed to do so.

The filmmaker shares a special bonding with Amitabh Bachchan and Aishwarya after having worked with them in Black , Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam and Devdaas .

Bhansali says he is eager to see the response of the Bachchans to the movie.

Meanwhile, filmmaker Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra recently saw the film and liked it very much.

Aishwarya Rai makes a special request to Bhansali

2007-12-07T13:59:00.000-08:00

Aishwarya, Abhishek join AIDS campaign

2007-12-07T13:57:00.000-08:00

Bollywood’s hottest couple Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan joined kids at Ashray, a home for HIV affected children.

It was time to do something on World AIDS Day on December 1. Both enjoyed brilliant performances by children and afterward distributed goodies to the kids.

The designer duo, Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla, who have been backing up Ashray since 2001, made all the arrangements of the event.

Abhishek said, “They had invited me in 2001 since then I have been coming frequently to Ashray. Abu, Sandeep are uncle to me, they are my family. This year we have been lucky enough to bring Aishwarya also as our new family member.”

"As people I we are all on the same boat. We are only happy to be here to support and share such a wonderful evening with these kids. They are simply happy and they teach us a lot on the ways of life," said Ash.

In the recent past, the pair has been spending quite some time interacting with youngsters on different occasions.

Abhishek, Aishwarya visit Ameen Peer Dargah in Andhra Pradesh

2007-12-07T13:51:00.001-08:00

Cuddapah (Andhra Pradesh), Nov 15: Bollywood's star couple Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai visited Ameen Peer Dargah, a revered Muslim shrine, here on Thursday.

The Bollywood's first couple, as referred by some, was accompanied with Samajwadi Party leader Amar Singh.

It may be recalled that Abhishek and Aishwarya, who were married in April this year, have been visiting holy shrines after their marriage.

The couple also offered a 'chadar' and conducted special prayers at the dargah.

Bachchan fans thronged the dargah to have a glimpse of the couple.

After spending around three hours at the Dargah, Amar Singh and the Bachchans left for Bangalore.

Prominent Bollywood personalities and politicians are regular visitors of this shrine.

Karnataka kudis rule Bollywood

2007-12-07T13:48:00.000-08:00

New Delhi, Nov.26: Once can be termed a fluke. The second makes a point and the third time its validation. Aishwarya Rai, then Shilpa Shetty and now Deepika Padukone, the three damsels from Karnataka have captured the imagination of the Bombay film industry.

Their dancing skills, chiselled bodies, large limpid eyes, perfect diction and dialogue delivery, dignified demeanour has the industry and viewers accepting the fact that Kannadigas have more to offer than Deve Gowda and rava dosai. And yet another K factor. If you combine a KK (Karnataka Kudi) with another K (khan) well you get sparkles. Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam had the KK plus K combine of Aishwarya Rai and Salman Khan and that raked in huge moolah and Om Shanti Om has the KK plus K of Deepika Padukone and Shahrukh Khan, and what a blockbuster that one is. That brings us to the other Karnataka Kudi, Shilpa Shetty. She has managed to melt the icy Brit hearts. So far, the Brits thought that only Udupi cuisine is what came out of Mangalore, that coastal city (mind it, its not a town) in Karnataka. Not so. This hot Kannadiga lady has shown that Mangalore has ice (Aishwarya) and fire (Shilpa). Now beat that. But why call them 'kudis' which is the Punjabi word for 'lass' you might ask...because they can do the Punjabi thumak better than the Punjabi leading ladies of today. Watch Shilpa Shetty gyrating in OSO and see the Punjabi kudi Karishma Kapoor shaking her head and bobbing her knee....what was Farah Khan thinking? See Aishawarya doing the gidda in Bride and Prejudice and look at the dancing of Priyanka Chopra or Lara Datta. There is grace and vigour in Aishwarya, but in Priyanka and Lara's style hits in your face heaving and jumping and lip biting. And what about the new K entrant Deepika Padukone who is disarmingly charming as 'dreamy girl'. Her poise and innocent looks are signs that she is "lambi race ka ghoda (ghodi?)". So, whereas there will always be room for Kareenas and Poojas of the film industry, the reigning queen will always be from the Deccan, whether it is Vijayanti Mala Bali, Hema Malini, Rekha or Vidya Balan.

Maybe, it can be loaned for a while to bong bombshells like Rakhee, Sharmila Tagore, Kajol or Rani.

But for today, it's with the K brigade, thank you. By Smita PrakashANI)

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan recommends everyone to get married

2007-12-07T13:46:00.000-08:00

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan recommends everyone to get married
From our ANI Correspondent

New Delhi, Dec 5: Seven months into wedlock, a joyous Bollywood actress Aishwarya Rai, who married Abhishek Bachchan, recommended everyone to enter matrimony.

"It's very difficult to articulate, put it down in just a few sentences because it's obviously a very, very wonderful and joyous phase and I strongly recommend it," she said when asked about her feelings of being a married woman.

"Well, it's a beautiful chapter in my life and it's a fantastic part of the journey. I'd recommend (it) to every one of you out here and I am blissfully happy. What more can one say," she added.

Aishwarya and Abhishek tied the knot in April, and industry analysts say their marriage created Bollywood's ultimate power couple with public interest in the couple being likened to Hollywood duo of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie.

Earlier in the day, the former Miss World dazzled audiences as she took the ramp wearing a blue sequenced ensemble at the launch of the Bridal collection of Swiss watch company Longines of whom she is a brand ambassador.

Aishwarya Rai launches Longines' sports collection watches

2007-12-07T13:41:00.000-08:00

Aishwarya Rai launches Longines' sports collection watches
From our ANI Correspondent
Mumbai, Dec 7: Bollywood actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan launched an exciting new sports collection of watches here on Thursday.

Longines chose the exciting sporting atmosphere of the exclusive Royal Western Turf Club of India to launch its new sport collection watches, targeting the young audience.

In a venue that epitomized the occasion, Longines International also decided to make a generous donation towards certain foundations taking care of the HIV affected people in India.

Appreciating this generous gesture, the brand ambassador Aishwarya Rai Bachchan said, "They'll be donating the funds to these foundations. It is an incredible donation from Longines and as their ambassador it thrills me to share this information with you."

Speaking to the media about the new launch, Charles Villoz, President of Longines International said, "This collection is much younger. It is targeted for the younger audience. That is what is new about it."

The new collection is available at the company's selective official outlets in India and abroad.

Exciting sporting performance was seen on the racecourse of the Royal Western India Turf Club during the launch.

The winners were charmed with Longines watches presented by the former Miss World.

One of the seven races of the day at the Royal Western India Turf Club was entitled as the "Longines Classic Race" for the occasion. The winner of this race was awarded with the first watch along with a splendid trophy.

Biography

2007-12-07T13:40:00.000-08:00

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)

Mini 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.

IMDb Mini Biography By: preetesh< preetesh_c@rediffmail.com>

Mini Biography
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).

IMDb Mini Biography By: Alindalia

Mini Biography
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" 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.

IMDb Mini Biography By: Simone Sheffield - Manager

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.

Personal Quotes
"I'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)

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Aishwarya Rai Biography

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Name : Aishwarya Rai
Nickname : Ash, Aishu, Gullu
Date of Birth : 1st November, 1973.
Place of Birth : Mangalore, Karnataka, India
Height : 5' 7
Eyes : grey green
Sign : Scorpio.
Education : Arya Vidar Mandir in Santa Cruz, Bombay, India
DG Ruparel College, Matunga, Bombay, India
Raheja College Architecture in Bandra, Bombay, India
Relationship : Salman Khan (actor),Vivek Oberoi(actor)

Aishwarya Rai was born in Mangalore, in the South Indian state of Karnataka, to Krishnaraj Rai, a marine engineer, and Vrinda Rai, a writer. Her family later relocated to Mumbai. Rai has one brother, Aditya Rai, who is three years older than she is. Aditya is a film producer, and has occasionally produced films in which Rai acted. Aditya got married in early 2004

Rai attended the Arya Vidya Mandir at Santacruz, Mumbai, then entered Ruparel College, Matunga, Mumbai. She was an A student and was on track to become an architect. Rai's native language is Tulu; she also speaks English, Hindi, Urdu, Marathi, Tamil, and Kannada.

Rai began modeling on the side while studying architecture. In the 1994 Miss India contest, she placed second behind Sushmita Sen, and went on to win the Miss World title that same year and the Miss Photogenic award. After the one year reign as Miss world in London, she then worked as a professional model, in advertising and Indian fashion magazines.

The first film Rai acted in was a Tamil movie Iruvar in (1997), directed by Mani Ratnam. Her first Hindi film was Aur Pyar Ho Gaya opposite Bobby Deol. Her breakthrough performance came in 1999 with Sanjay Leela Bhansali's film Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam. Later standout successes include Taal and Devdas. Besides Hindi language, Bollywood films, Rai has also acted in Tamil films such as Jeans and Kandukondain Kandukondain and the Bengali film Chokher Bali, and appeared in a Telugu film Ravoyi Chandamama. Since 2004 Rai has also been appearing in an increasing number of English language films.

In 2002, Rai appeared with Bollywood superstars Shah Rukh Khan and Madhuri Dixit in the lavishly produced Devdas, which was a huge hit. The film attracted overseas attention as well, receiving a special screening at the Cannes Film Festival and being nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Film in the United States, garnering international attention for Rai.

In 2003, Rai was a member of the jury at Cannes. In 2004, she was chosen by TIME Magazine's Asian Edition as one of Asia's "100 Most Influential People." She was the subject of a 60 Minutes profile on January 2, 2005 - "The Most Beautiful face in the Bollywood." A month later she appeared on the Late Show with David Letterman, and on April 25, 2005, she was featured on Oprah's "Women Across the Globe" segment. A wax figure of Rai is on display in London's Madame Tussaud's wax museum. Julia Roberts named Rai the most beautiful woman in the world.

Although frequently the subject of gossip column speculation about an imminent Hollywood career, it was only in 2004 that Rai finally acted in a foreign film, when British director Gurinder Chadha hired her to play the heroine in Bride and Prejudice, a Hollywood-funded but Bollywood-ized version of Jane Austen's classic novel, Pride and Prejudice. The movie came just shy of breaking even at the US box office but earned over 400% return on investment in global revenue. Her later movie Mistress of Spices, written by Gurinder Chadha and her husband Paul Mayeda Berges from the novel by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni and directed by Berges, was released in the U.K. in April 2006 to a generally poor critical and commercial reception. Aishwarya has several other international, English-language films in the pipeline, including Provoked, The Last Legion, Singularity, and Chaos.

The song "Kajra Re", which Rai performed in the film Bunty Aur Babli, was voted best song of 2005 and best choreographed song of 2005 in a poll by the Hindustan Times. Rai appeared at the Closing Ceremony of the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne, as part of a performance showcasing Indian culture, on behalf of the 2010 Commonwealth Games, to be held in New Delhi. For her three-minute dance performance, Rai was reportedly paid three crore rupees, the equivalent of about 600,000 U.S. dollars.

Rai began dating Salman Khan, her co-star from Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, after the filming of that movie. Their breakup a few years later generated a substantial amount of press attention; a police report from Rai's parents turned up alleging that Khan had smashed windows and furniture at their home, and an inebriated Khan subsequently assaulted Rai on the set of a movie she was working on, soon before he was arrested for drunk driving and vehicular homicide. Years later, at the premiere of her film Provoked, in which she plays the role of a real-life victim of domestic violence, Rai reported having personally suffered from domestic violence, a reference that was linked by the press with her past relationship with Khan. Rai later had a brief relationship with Abhishek Bachchan begun during the filming of Umrao Jaan, with whom she had previously co-starred in Kuch Naa Kaho. She was reported to have broken up with Bachchan in April 2006, while the two are currently filming yet another collaboration, Dhoom 2.

Rai has been described by others in the Bollywood film industry as having traditional values and being "a paragon of age-old, dutiful Indian femininity". As a practicing Hindu, she has described herself as having "immense faith in God", and when at home she attends the Siddhivinayak Mandir, devoted to Lord Ganesh. When not on the road, Rai lives in Mumbai with her parents.

Aishwarya Rai Quotes

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"I'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 (2005/II)_ : 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."

Aishwarya Rai Filmography

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Chaos (2007) (in production)
The Rebel (2007) (announced) .... Rani Laxmibai
Singularity (2006) (announced) .... Tulaja
Bhopal Movie (2007) (pre-production) .... Jasmine Singh
Guru (2006) (pre-production)
Jodha-Akbar (2006) (pre-production) .... Jodha Bhai
The Heart of India (2006) (filming) .... Mumtaz Mahal
Dhoom 2 (2006) (filming)
The Enchanted Sword (2007) (post-production) .... Mira
Provoked (2006) .... Kiranjit Ahluwalia
Umrao Jaan (2006) .... Umrao Jaan
Mistress of Spices (2005) .... Tilo
Bunty Aur Babli (2005) .... Special Appearance (song)
Shabd (2005) .... Tamanna
Bride & Prejudice (2004) .... Lalita Bakshi
Kyun...! Ho Gaya Na (2004) .... Diya Malhotra
Raincoat (2004) .... Neerja/Neeru
Khakee (2004) .... Mahalaxshmi
Kuch Naa Kaho (2003) .... Namrata Shrivastav
Chokher Bali (2003) .... Binodini
Dil Ka Rishta (2003) .... Tia Sharma
Shakti: The Power (2002) .... Dream Girl
23rd March 1931: Shaheed (2002) .... Special Appearance (song)
Hum Kisi Se Kum Nahin (2002) .... Komal Rastogi
Hum Tumhare Hain Sanam (2002) .... Special Appearence
Devdas (2002) .... Parvati ('Paro')
Albela (2001) .... Sonia
Mohabbatein (2000) .... Megha
Dhaai Akshar Prem Ke (2000) .... Sahiba Gareval
Hamara Dil Aapke Paas Hai (2000) .... Preeti Virat
Josh (2000) .... Shirley
Kandukondain Kandukondain (2000) .... Meenakshi
Mela (2000) .... Champakali
Sanam Tere Hain Hum (2000) .... Special Appearance
Ravoyi Chandamama (1999) .... Special Appearance (Song)
Taal (1999) .... Mansi
Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999) .... Nandini
Aa Ab Laut Chalen (1999) .... Pooja Walia
Jeans (1998) .... Madhumitha/Vaishnavi
Aur Pyaar Ho Gaya (1997) .... Ashi Kapoor
Iruvar (1997) .... Pushpa/Kalpana