In the glamorous corridors of Bollywood, few love stories resonate as deeply as that of Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan, whose journey from co-stars to life partners epitomizes a modern-day fairy tale. Celebrated not only for their impactful presence on screen but also for their 16-year-strong marital bond, this power couple has stood as a testament to enduring love in an industry often scrutinized for fleeting relationships.
Their romance found its roots in the world of cinema, on the very sets where they pursued their acting aspirations. The year 2000 marked their first collaboration with the film ‘Dhai Akshar Prem Ke,’ but little did anyone know that a year earlier, during a photoshoot, the seeds of a deep connection had been sown between them. This blooming friendship paved the way for what would become a legendary love story affectionately known by fans as ‘AbhiAsh.’
Post their initial on-screen pairing, Aishwarya and Abhishek’s paths intertwined professionally in the years that followed with movies such as ‘Kuch Naa Kaho’ in 2003. But it was the 2006 film ‘Umrao Jaan’ that seemingly fanned the flames of affection, an emotion Abhishek himself acknowledged. During the production of ‘Dhoom 2,’ the duo’s proximity increased, and their feelings intensified. It is often recounted that their subsequent film, ‘Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna,’ played a pivotal role in their off-screen narrative. Reports suggest that Abhishek, overwhelmed during an emotional scene, confided his feelings to director Karan Johar and makeup artist Mickey Contractor.
The romance took a fairytale turn when, as revealed on ‘The Oprah Winfrey Show,’ Abhishek, inspired by his wishes made on a New York balcony while filming, proposed to Aishwarya on the same balcony. This heartfelt gesture came just as the city hosted the premiere of their film ‘Guru.’
Their wedding was nothing short of a spectacular spectacle, set against the backdrop of the Bachchan residency. Celebrated with the opulence of traditional Indian ceremonies, they exchanged vows following Mangalorean customs, surrounded by a who’s who of Bollywood and political figures.
Like any epic narrative, their journey wasn’t without its trials. Speculations and rumors swirled around their courtship, with controversies arising from on-screen moments, such as Aishwarya’s kiss with co-star Hrithik Roshan in ‘Dhoom 2,’ which reportedly stirred tensions in the Bachchan household. Additionally, there were whispers of Aishwarya partaking in a ritual marriage to a tree, a custom to mitigate astrological concerns before her union with Abhishek.
Nonetheless, the couple’s foundation proved stronger than any adversity, with their marriage flourishing over the years. Their fans, enchanted by their partnership, eagerly await the chance to see this duo grace the silver screen together once again.
A significant milestone in their life was the birth of their daughter, Aaradhya Bachchan, who celebrated her 12th birthday in November prior to the article’s knowledge cutoff. Following her birth, there were unfounded rumors regarding a second pregnancy for Aishwarya, rumors which were eventually dispelled.
Today, Aishwarya and Abhishek continue to inspire legions of fans, not only with their on-screen performances but more so with their commitment to each other and their family, standing resolute as one of Bollywood’s most revered and enduring couples.
