Aishwarya Rai Bachchan by the men who know her greatest: “The foremost time I met Aishwarya ended up being in August 1997. I ended up being on a recce for my father's picture, Mrityudata, in Switzerland, and she ended up being shooting for her first picture, Aur Pya Ho Gaya, with my dear mate Bobby Deol. I recollect one night Bobby welcomed me over to his lodging for supper and Aishwarya and the rest of the unit were there. That amounted to the first time I in reality met her, in spite of the fact that I had doubtlessly viewed her heretofore, because she was Miss World and all that. I don’t recollect the instant when I knew she amounted to the one, in reality, which is weird, but it unfailingly unequivocally felt right. In the event that you inquire, she will tell you the same thing—that the moment we met up, we both knew that this ended up being something for the long haul. So, there wasn’t simply this ‘one’ pivotal occasion, it invariably felt idealize.
Karan Johar on how Aishwarya turned him down
“We have a great relationship. We always put up our feet and laugh at each other or talk about fun stuff. We enjoy ‘intelligent analysis’ (which is my new phrase). I have known her for years and though we have never worked together, I know we will be fantastic together on celluloid as actor and director. She does not just have beauty, but also drive. All sorts of criticism has come her way, but she has only worked harder—in films in Mumbai and down South, endorsements and appearances in India and abroad. She has made a huge brand of herself. Not many people
Know that I approached nine heroines for the part eventually played by Rani Mukherji in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai. All had detailed narrations; all said they loved it and would call me back. But of the nine, only Aishwarya called back and said she could not do it because her dates were given to Jeans. She had the grace to call back and have a detailed discussion, which was very encouraging for me as a first-time film-maker.”
Dr Zirak Marker on his best friend of 20 years
“We have been confidantes and best friends for more than half our lives. Her most special quality as a friend is her undying loyalty, which also comes from being a Scorpio. She is dedicated and committed to everything in her life, even to friendship. In spite of our lives going in such different directions and with our respective schedules, we always touch base on special occasions and, time permitting, we meet in Mumbai. Like anyone else, we love eating, dancing and reminiscing about old times. I have so many crazy stories from my medical school days that really crack her up. We share the same sense of humor and can laugh for hours on end. I think I am a great stress-buster for her. I have been there for her through her bad times and vice-versa. It is in those moments that you know who your true friends are.”