Mumbai: Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, one of Bollywood’s most beautiful and renowned actresses, has earned global recognition for her beauty and exceptional acting. In 1994, she was crowned Miss World, a milestone that propelled her popularity to new heights. Interestingly, few people are aware that she had received several film offers even before winning the Miss World title—she could have even made her Bollywood debut in Aamir Khan’s superhit film, ‘Raja Hindustani’.
Today, we share 6 fascinating anecdotes from Aishwarya Rai’s life that you might not be familiar with.
- Aishwarya faced the camera during her school days
Aishwarya Rai began facing the camera long before she entered the film industry. While in the ninth grade, she shot for her first-ever advertisement—a commercial for ‘Camlin Pencils’. However, it was her appearance alongside Aamir Khan in a Pepsi commercial in 1993 that brought her significant popularity.
- ‘Raja Hindustani’ could have been her debut film
In an old interview, Aishwarya Rai revealed that she had received offers for four films even before participating in the Miss India pageant. She mentioned that she had actually entered the Miss India contest with the intention of keeping her distance from the film industry. Had she not participated in the pageant, the 1996 film ‘Raja Hindustani’—starring Aamir Khan and Karisma Kapoor—could have been her debut movie.
- She left her architecture studies midway
Acting was not Aishwarya Rai’s initial career choice; she had originally aspired to pursue a career in the medical field. Later, she decided to study architecture and enrolled at the Rachana Sansad Academy of Architecture in Mumbai. However, after winning the Miss World title, she began receiving a steady stream of offers for films and modeling assignments. For this reason, she could not complete her studies.
- Aishwarya aspires to direct films in the future
Beyond acting, Aishwarya Rai also has an interest in film direction. In a 2019 interview, she mentioned that she would like to direct a film someday. However, she has not yet begun working seriously in this direction. Those who work with her often suggest that she should try her hand at direction and production.
- The first Indian actress to serve on the Cannes Film Festival jury
Aishwarya Rai has played a significant role in bringing international recognition to Indian cinema. In 2003, she became the first Indian actress to serve on the jury at the Cannes Film Festival. Furthermore, a wax figure of her is displayed at Madame Tussauds. With these achievements, she has established a distinct identity for herself globally.
- A flower named after Aishwarya
The extent of Aishwarya Rai’s popularity can be gauged by the fact that a rare variety of tulip in the Netherlands has been named after her. She received this special honor in 2005. It is said that this name was chosen in recognition of her beauty and her widespread global popularity.
Bollywood debut with ‘Aur Pyaar Ho Gaya’
Aishwarya Rai made her Bollywood debut in the 1997 film ‘Aur Pyaar Ho Gaya’. She starred alongside actor Bobby Deol in the film, which was directed by Rahul Rawail. Following this, Aishwarya went on to work in a series of remarkable films, carving out a significant place for herself in Bollywood through her powerful performances.
