Mumbai: In a significant revelation, an old video of Aishwarya Rai Bachchan explaining why she turned down a role in Shah Rukh Khan’s film “Happy New Year” has resurfaced, captivating the internet. The Ponniyin Selvan star sheds light on her decision to refuse the role in Farah Khan’s directorial venture, which also featured her husband Abhishek Bachchan. This comes in the context of recent events where Abhishek addressed and dismissed rumors of their potential divorce.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, an epitome of grace and versatility in Bollywood, was approached for a role in “Happy New Year,” a film that promised to be both a critical and commercial success. The film, starring Shah Rukh Khan and directed by Farah Khan, had an ensemble cast including Deepika Padukone, Boman Irani, Sonu Sood, and Vivaan Shah. Notably, Abhishek Bachchan played the comedic character Nandu Bhide, receiving widespread applause for his impeccable comic timing.
However, despite the star-studded cast and the promise of a fun-filled project, Aishwarya chose to step back. The reason, as the actress candidly shared in the resurfaced video, was her preference to be cast opposite her husband Abhishek Bachchan, rather than alongside Shah Rukh Khan with no on-screen pairing with Abhishek.
In the video, Aishwarya can be seen explaining, “I was asked for the film, and it seemed like a fun trip. You know, you’re going to have a blast, but it would not have worked out because Abhishek and I were not opposite each other, and it would have been weird. That is why I declined it.”
This decision seems to resonate deeply with fans who hold the couple in high regard. Aishwarya’s choice reflects not just personal sentiment but also a professional preference to share screen space meaningfully with her husband. The fiery chemistry they have shown in films like “Guru” has set high expectations for their pairings.
Meanwhile, the couple, who have been married for 17 years, recently found themselves in the throes of media speculation concerning their marriage. Abhishek Bachchan earlier responded to divorce rumors that flared up after he liked a post hinting at their separation on Instagram.
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Addressing the rumors, Abhishek stated firmly, “I don’t have anything to say to you all about that. You all have blown the entire thing out of proportion, sadly. I understand why you do it. You have to file some stories. It’s okay, we’re celebrities, we have to take it.” He even took a jibe at the rumors, saying, “I am still married, sorry.”
Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan have withstood the test of time and public scrutiny, continuing to be one of Bollywood’s most beloved couples. Their daughter, Aaradhya Bachchan, has grown into a beautiful and intelligent young girl, often seen with her parents at public events, exuding the same charm as her star-studded lineage.
The resurfaced conversation about Aishwarya’s decision to pass on “Happy New Year” also highlights her professional integrity and commitment to her personal principles. While fans were undoubtedly excited at the prospect of seeing Aishwarya and Abhishek together in a film, her decision underscores the couple’s strong bond and their shared values when it comes to family and professional choices.
As Bollywood continues to evolve, stories like these offer a glimpse into the personal lives of celebrities, far beyond the glamour and glitz. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s decision might have been a setback for the filmmakers and her fans at the time, but it stands as a testament to her unwavering support and camaraderie with her husband.
The old video continues to make rounds on social media, drawing appreciation and reigniting the conversation about the choices celebrities make behind the scenes. In an industry where professional decisions are interwoven with personal life, Aishwarya and Abhishek’s story stands out, resonating with many who hold relationships in high esteem.
Their journey over the last 17 years, punctuated by professional highs and personal joys, including the birth and upbringing of Aaradhya, signifies more than just the journey of a married couple; it’s a narrative of shared dreams, mutual respect, and the balance between stardom and private life.
