Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, one of Bollywood’s leading ladies and former Miss World celebrates her 45th birthday Thursday.
To celebrate her birthday, Rai has headed to Goa for a short trip with husband Abhishek Bachchan and daughter Aaradhya.
Apart from being a global icon and one of the world’s most beautiful faces, Aishwarya is also a remarkable actor. Here are six of her career defining roles:
Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam
Regarded as the turning point in Aishwarya’s career, Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s magnum opus, saw the actress play a young girl torn between her values and love. Nandini’s transformation from carefree, free spirited girl into a determined and vulnerable married woman was brilliantly played by Rai, who went on to win a Filmfare Best Actress award for her performance.
Taal
Aishwarya played a small town girl who becomes a sensation after personal turmoil in Subhash Ghai’s musical blockbuster. Aishwarya’s gripping performance and dance sequences won her applause from all around.
Devdas
Aishwarya’s portrayal of Paro in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s magnum opus is easily regarded as one of Bollywood’s most iconic roles. The grace, grief and depth brought to the character by Aishwarya was impeccable and grand. Rai won her second Filmfare Best Actor award for this film.
Guru
Playing the role of a free spirited and supportive in this Mani Ratnam drama, Aishwarya ruled the screen space with her effortless acting.
Jodhaa Akbar
Ashutosh Gowariker’s period film saw Aishwarya elegantly play the role of princess Jodhaa. She perfectly nailed the mannerisms of a Rajput royalty, giving an awe-inspiring performance.
Guzaarish
In a never seen before role, Rai played a nurse in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Guzaarish. Aishwarya’s performance was intense earning her the Filmfare nomination for Best Female Actor.
