Shubha Shetty-Saha / DNA
Says pa-in-law Amitabh Bachchan on her 35th B’day
Mumbai, Nov 1: Amitabh Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai worked as co-stars in several films before she tied the knot with AB Junior. She played his daughter in films like Mohabbatein and Hum Kisise Kam Nahin. He grooved with her and son Abhishek in the sensuous Kajra re from Bunty Aur Babli.
Today, the doe-eyed beauty is not just a daughter-in-law for the Bachchans; she is their beti, a friend and a rising star.
On Aishwarya’s 35th birthday, Big B talks about his unique relationship with his daughter-in-law.
What would you like to say to Aishwarya on this special day?
I wish her peace, prosperity, good health and a harmonious life.
Are you proud of Aishwarya since she is one of the few Bollywood actors who have actually made their mark worldwide?
I am proud that she is my daughter-in-law. My son chose her to be his wife and we are most happy with his decision. The fact that she comes with added personal credentials makes us happy too. But even if she did not, we would have been equally proud and happy.
Has there been any change in the Bachchan household since Aishwarya has been a part of it?
Yes, there has! The dining table is set for four instead of three.
You once called her your friend. What is the kind of bond that you share with her now?
I had desired long before my son was born that he would be my friend. Now that he is married, I would like to treat his ‘better half’ as a friend too, and I do. Friends have a very vast and varied description in the eyes of different people. In my eyes, she satisfies my interpretation of what I believe to be a friend; one that signifies a close personal relationship, mutual affection and trust.
What is it about her that you admire the most?
Her quiet yet firm resolve. Her intellect and strength in conducting her life and career the way she has. And the capacity she exhibits in continuously wanting to absorb more to improve her present condition.
How different or similar is she to your own daughter, Shweta?
No two women in the world can be entirely similar or different.
Are you hoping to become a grandfather soon?
Which father does not? But we must allow nature to take its own course. Mankind/womankind would be foolish to challenge nature!