Chokher Bali To Ponniyin Selvan: A Look at Aishwarya Rai's Regional Powerhouse Performances

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, a name synonymous with elegance and grace, is more than just a stunning face. This former Miss World has carved a remarkable career in Indian cinema, captivating audiences not just in Hindi films but also in regional languages like Tamil and Bengali. Aishwarya Rai's journey began not in Bollywood, but with her Tamil debut in Mani Ratnam's epic political drama, 'Iruvar' (1997). The same year, she entered the Hindi film industry with 'Aur Pyaar Ho Gaya.' Aishwarya has since built a successful film career spanning 48 films across Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu cinema. 


Here are some regional films that highlight Aishwarya Rai’s breathtaking talent and stunning looks: 


Chokher Bali (2003)




Directed by Rituparno Ghosh and based on Rabindranath Tagore's novel, this Bengali-language film follows Binodini, a widow, who travels back to her village and starts living with her friend. Their lives are thrown into disarray when there is deceit and adultery between Binodini, Mahendra, his wife and his friend. Aishwarya Rai's portrayal of Binodini, alongside Prosenjit Chatterjee and Raima Sen, is nothing short of extraordinary. 





Iruvar (1997)







Aishwarya’s debut film, directed by Mani Ratnam, is a Tamil-language epic political drama inspired by the lives of M. G. Ramachandran, M. Karunanidhi, and J. Jayalalithaa. The film features a stellar cast including Mohanlal, Prakash Raj, and Revathi, with Aishwarya playing dual roles, showcasing her versatility from the start. 


Kandukondain Kandukondain (2000)







Directed by Rajiv Menon, this Tamil film is based on Jane Austen's 'Sense and Sensibility.' Featuring Mammootty, Ajith Kumar, Tabu, and Abbas, the story revolves around two sisters with differing views on love. Aishwarya Rai's role as the hopelessly romantic Meenu is a highlight in this tale of love and hope. 


Raavanan (2010)







In this Tamil-language epic action-adventure directed by Mani Ratnam, Aishwarya stars alongside Vikram and Prithviraj Sukumaran. The film tells the story of a bandit leader who kidnaps the wife of a policeman and falls in love with her. Aishwarya’s performance as Ragini Sharma is a testament to her acting prowess. 'Raavanan' was a technical masterpiece with gorgeous visuals and excellent action sequences. 


Enthiran (2010)




Directed by S. Shankar, this Tamil-language science fiction action film stars Rajinikanth in dual roles as a scientist and a robot, with Aishwarya as the female lead. Inspired by the English film 'Making Mr. Right,' the movie is a visual spectacle with Aishwarya delivering a stunning performance. 


Jeans (1998)







This Tamil-language romantic comedy, directed by S. Shankar, stars Aishwarya alongside Prashanth. The film revolves around a twin brother who falls in love with a woman who doesn't have a twin sister, against their father's wishes. The film’s grand sets and engaging storyline make it a must-watch. 


Ponniyin Selvan: I and II (2022, 2023)







Directed by Mani Ratnam, this Tamil-language epic features an ensemble cast including Vikram, Karthi, Sobhita Dhulipala, Jayam Ravi, and Aishwarya Rai. Set during the Chola dynasty, the film is in a league of its own, with every element—screenplay, acting, performances, and music—hitting a high note of excellence.  


(Mubarika Noor is pursuing M.A. (Mass Communication) from Aligarh Muslim University)


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