Aishwarya Rai was born in Mangalore in the state of Karnataka, India to marine engineer Krishna Rai and writer mom Vrinda Rai. One of the most successful Bollywood actress now, Aishwarya aspired to be an architect but started modeling instead. Her first modelling assignment was for Camelin Industries that paved way for opportunities to work for Pamolive, Casio Pager, Pepsi, Philips, Sheetal Diva, Prudent and many more.

Aishwarya Rai was chosen Miss World 1994 and in 2000, she was named the Most Beautiful Miss World of all times. Standing 5 foot 7 inches tall, Rai is a practicing Hindu with an immense faith in god and friends.

Primarily a Bollywood actress, Aishwarya has acted in Tamil, Bengali and English films too. The Bollywood queen has received praises for her performance in English films like Bride & Prejudice and Mistress of Spice. Her outstanding contribution to the Indian cinema has brought many awards and various national and international honours to her credit. During the IIFA awards in Amsterdam, Aishwarya also had a breed of tulip named after her.

She has graced the covers of international magazines including Time and Hello! Besides Amitabh Bachchan, the actress is the only Indian actor who features her wax replica in London's Madame Tussauds.

It is her confidence that belies her status in the film industry. But it is her keen sense of direction and her intrinsic intelligence that makes her so poised and confident.