What is the story about?
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is an actress whose screen presence has transcended generations. From portraying a heartbroken lover to a fierce queen and a glamorous
thief, the Bollywood star has embraced an eclectic range of characters throughout her career. As Aishwarya turns 53 on November 1, we revisit some of her most memorable cinematic outings. While her beauty and elegance have often dominated conversations, her filmography boasts several fascinating performances that deserve another watch. From Devdas to Dhoom 2, here are five films that capture different shades of Aishwarya's stardom.
Devdas (2002)
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan delivered one of her most celebrated performances as Parvati, fondly known as Paro, in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Devdas. Playing a woman torn between her enduring love for Devdas and the realities imposed by society, she brought remarkable emotional depth to the character. Her expressive eyes, restrained anguish and dignified portrayal of heartbreak made Paro unforgettable. Whether navigating moments of vulnerability or asserting her pride, Aishwarya held her own in the grand cinematic spectacle, earning a Filmfare Award for Best Actress.
Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999)
As Nandini in Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, Aishwarya showcased a delightful mix of youthful exuberance, romantic innocence and emotional maturity. Her character begins as a spirited young woman who falls deeply in love with Sameer, only to find herself navigating an unexpected marriage with Vanraj. Aishwarya beautifully captures Nandini's emotional evolution, transitioning from playful mischief and passionate romance to confusion, vulnerability and eventual acceptance. Her chemistry with Salman Khan and Ajay Devgn, coupled with her expressive performance, makes this one of the most memorable roles of her career.
Jodhaa Akbar (2008)
Aishwarya stepped into the shoes of Rajput princess Jodhaa Bai in Ashutosh Gowariker's Jodhaa Akbar, bringing together regal elegance and formidable inner strength. Her character is not merely a queen navigating palace life but a fiercely independent woman who stands by her beliefs and refuses to compromise her identity. Aishwarya portrays Jodhaa's initial resistance towards Akbar, her intelligence and her gradual emotional transformation with considerable grace. Her measured expressions and commanding screen presence make her portrayal a memorable highlight of this historical romance.
Guru (2007)
In Mani Ratnam's Guru, Aishwarya played Sujata Desai, the wife of Gurukant Desai, portrayed by Abhishek Bachchan. While the story primarily follows Guru's ambitious journey towards building a business empire, Sujata emerges as its emotional anchor. Aishwarya brings warmth, resilience and quiet determination to the character, portraying a woman who stands beside her husband through personal and professional upheavals. However, she also gives Sujata an independent voice, ensuring she is not reduced to merely being a supportive spouse. Her understated performance adds emotional weight to the narrative.
Dhoom 2 (2006)
Aishwarya embraced a completely different avatar as Sunehri, a clever con artist, in Sanjay Gadhvi's action thriller Dhoom 2. Sharing the screen with Hrithik Roshan, she brought a mischievous charm, confidence and magnetic energy to the stylish character. Sunehri's unpredictable nature and ability to hold her own in a world of high-stakes robberies allowed Aishwarya to explore a more playful and adventurous side of her screen persona. From her glamorous makeover to her effortless chemistry with Hrithik, she made a striking impression in this blockbuster.
Happy birthday Aishwarya Rai!
