From Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam to Ponniyin Selvan! Aishwarya Rai Bachchan recalls playing 'Nandini' in both films

Many films come and go, but Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, starring Aishwarya Rai, will live on in our memories forever. Thanks to Salman Khan, Ajay Devgn, and her moving performances and, of course, Sanjay Leela Bhansali's vision, the film has remained a fan favourite for 23 years after its release.

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Salman Khan, and Ajay Devgn play the roles of Nandini, Sameer, and Vanraj in the film Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam. While learning Indian classical music under Pundit Darbar, the father of Nandini, Sameer develops a romantic interest in Nandini. In opposition to this relationship, Pundit Darbar arranges for her marriage to Vanraj. How this marriage affects all three lives is depicted in the movie!

It's interesting to note that Aishwarya is reprising her role as Nandini in Mani Ratnam's Ponniyin Selvan. The actor spoke about portraying Nandini in both films at a promotional event for Ponniyin Selvan 2 on Tuesday in Mumbai.

Aishwarya had a feeling of nostalgia in response to the query. "Beautiful coincidence, na? It's amazing na ki aisa hua bhi hai. In fact, yes, even Nandini in Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam was very memorable. She has lived in people's hearts, and I'm so thankful that I got to play Nandini then too, and she has remained special to the audience and, of course, to me. And that was with Sanjay Bhansali ji, and today, of course, with my Mani Garu, I got to play Nandini in Ponniyan Selvan. I mean, that`s just tremendously a blessing that I got to play such strong women, such layered women, and women with a character that touches the lives of so many women out there. There is a relatability, so I'm very, very grateful," Aishwarya stated.

Aishwarya portrays two characters in the two-part historical drama that Mani Ratnam directed: Nandini and Oomai Rani. On April 28, Ponniyin Selvan 2 is scheduled for release.