Mumbai: In a surprising revelation, Bollywood actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan disclosed why she declined an offer to star in the multi-starrer film ‘Happy New Year,’ directed by Farah Khan and featuring Shah Rukh Khan in a leading role. The film also included her husband, Abhishek Bachchan, who played the character of Nandu Bhide, delighting audiences with his comic timing. Fans had initially hoped to see the real-life couple share screen space; however, Aishwarya’s decision led to a different casting outcome.
In a recently resurfaced video that has gone viral, Aishwarya explained that her decision was influenced by the casting dynamic. She stated, “I was asked for the film, and it seemed like a fun trip; you know you are 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.”
The resurfacing of this video comes at an interesting time, as Abhishek Bachchan has been actively addressing rumours surrounding their marriage. Recently, Abhishek responded to divorce speculations, after liking a post about separation on Instagram. The actor hinted at how the situation had been blown out of proportion, remarking sarcastically, “I am still married, sorry.” He further elaborated, “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.”
Abhishek and Aishwarya, who have been married for 17 years, share a daughter named Aaradhya Bachchan. Their relationship has often been under the microscope, given their celebrity status, but they continue to emphasize their stable bond.
The buzz around Aishwarya’s decision to reject ‘Happy New Year’ also taps into her career dynamics and choices. Known for picking roles that have significance and depth, Aishwarya has often chosen quality over quantity.
. Her hesitation to work in the film without being paired with Abhishek highlights her desire for meaningful collaborations, particularly when it involves working with her husband.
‘Happy New Year,’ which was released in 2014, turned out to be a successful Bollywood flick, earning applause for its star-studded cast and high entertainment quotient. The film featured an ensemble cast including Deepika Padukone, Boman Irani, Sonu Sood, and Vivaan Shah in pivotal roles.
In the realm of Bollywood, the partnerships between real-life couples often generate significant interest, and fans are always eager to see them share the screen. The Bachchan duo, with their strong individual fan bases, is no exception. When they do collaborate, such as in ‘Dhoom 2’ and ‘Raavan,’ it becomes a focal point of discussions and speculations. However, Aishwarya’s clarity on professional boundaries and artistic integrity sets a standard in the industry.
The public discourse around their marriage reached a peak when Abhishek’s liking of a separation post on Instagram sparked rumors. His opening up about the incident indicated the pressures faced by celebrities in maintaining personal life while being subject to public scrutiny. His commentary on the matter underscores the excessive attention paid to celebrity relationships and the challenges it brings.
Moreover, the resurgence of the old video of Aishwarya also throws light on the dynamics of choosing film projects in Bollywood. It highlights how personal and professional considerations are deeply interwoven for actors who not only look at the financial and artistic merits but also relational comfort and narrative significance.
The enduring relationship of Abhishek and Aishwarya, coupled with their public poise in handling rumors, especially around their personal lives, has made them one of Bollywood’s most admired couples. Their supportive stance towards each other, as observed in numerous public appearances and social media exchanges, continues to win them accolades.
As for their daughter Aaradhya, the nine-year-old has often been in the limelight, growing up amidst significant media attention. Known for her elegance and intelligence, the young Bachchan is frequently seen accompanying her parents at various events, making her own mark as a popular star kid.
Looking ahead, the couple’s forthcoming projects and the choices they make will undoubtedly continue to be a matter of public interest. While Aishwarya’s decision to decline ‘Happy New Year’ might have disappointed some fans, it has also been a testament to her artistic principles and her special rapport with her husband, Abhishek Bachchan. Their journey, both personal and professional, remains a fascinating subject in the tapestry of Bollywood narratives.
