They were once Bollywood's best friends—so why Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Rani Mukerji drifted apart?
While many friendships formed in Bollywood become legendary, others get buried in the pages of history as time takes its toll. One such interesting story involves two stalwarts of Hindi cinema: Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Rani Mukerji. There was a time when the two actresses shared a beautiful and strong bond.
Aishwarya Rai herself revealed in an old interview how an international tour completely altered the dynamic between them. She spoke earnestly about how true friendship is indeed possible even within the glamour industry. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan spoke openly about her bond with Rani Mukerji on a popular talk show.
How this special journey began
Aishwarya Rai recounted that they had met casually. Subsequently, they embarked on their first international world tour together to perform shows. During this journey, both artists had the opportunity to live, work, and perform together for nearly 45 days.
According to Aishwarya, this extended period allowed them to understand each other closely. As both were accompanied by their families, the natural rapport between them deepened further. At that time, Aishwarya Rai had spoken very highly of Rani Mukerji, describing her as a girl with a very friendly and easy-going nature.
When Rani Mukerji sent her love via the TV screen
The depth of this friendship was evident not only in Aishwarya Rai’s words but also in Rani Mukerji’s sentiments. During the same show, Rani Mukerji sent a very special and heartwarming video message for Aishwarya, expressing her affection in a manner that was both playful and emotional.
Rani had stated that even though they hadn't managed to meet in Delhi and there had been some grievances due to their busy schedules, she held nothing but love for Aishwarya in her heart. Through television, Rani had expressed a wish before the entire world that the two of them would always remain good friends.
How a film decision created a rift
This beautiful and exemplary friendship could not last long. In 2003, a turning point in their relationship changed everything. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan had initially been selected for a pivotal role alongside Shah Rukh Khan in the film Chalte Chalte.
However, due to subsequent circumstances, Rani Mukerji was cast in the film in Aishwarya Rai's place. This single incident sowed the seeds of deep discord between the two beauties. A rift subsequently developed that drove them apart forever, turning their relationship into one of Bollywood's most talked-about controversies.