In 2002, Aishwarya Rai brought her film 'Devdas' to the Cannes Film Festival and awed the audience with her performance. 15 years later, this beautiful belle is all set to present this tragic love story to the audience once again. The actress will be presenting Sanjay Leela Bhansali's film on May 20th in the 70th edition of this fest as part of the L'Oreal's Open Air Cinema.
Recalling she stepped out of the chariot with co-star Shahrukh Khan, Aishwarya says, 'It was proud day for all of us. It was the first time an Indian movie was being screened and it was an honor for me as we were showcasing Indian cinema at its best. Devdas is a long film by international standards but we got a thunderous applause, which was overwhelming.'
In the next few years, Aishwarya Rai became the jury member for the Cannes Film Festival. 'I was the first Indian to be jury member here and now, after 15 years, this feels like a home and I feel as if I am a part of a huge family’, Aishwarya said.
More Bollywood actresses in Cannes
Aishwarya’s entry into the Cannes Film Festival opened the door for other Bollywood actresses. In 2011, actress Sonam Kapoor started her journey at Cannes representing Indian colors at its best.
This year, ‘xXx: Return of Xander Cage’ actress Deepika Padukone debuted, creating a sensation at the fest. Sources say, after the success of her international debut, there are possibilities of Deepika signing another Hollywood movie. Along with Padukone, actress Shruti Hassan will be making her debut with her film ‘Sangamithra.’
When it comes to international films, Aishwarya yet again started the trend by debuting in the 2009 comedy film ‘Pink Panther’ along with Steve Martin.
The film did not get good reviews in the box office, but Aishwarya stole the thunder by playing a negative role in the film.
Aishwarya’s comeback in Bollywood
Motherhood kept Aishwarya from the spotlight for a few years. Her comeback film ‘Jazbaa’ did not garner positive reviews but Aishwarya’s latest film ‘Ae Dil Hai Mushkil’ got a mixed response at the box office. Her role as an elusive and beautiful poet who indulges in a torrid affair with a younger man did not get much praise. In fact, reports suggested that Aishwarya’s in-laws, the Bachchan family was not excited about her bold scenes in the film. Her fans were reportedly upset as her role was reduced to a mere glamor addition in the film.
Aishwarya had apparently requested the bold scenes to embolden her character in the film. While it may have been a good choice at that time, it looks like the Bachchan family were not content with her role in the film.