Long before Aishwarya Rai Bachchan became an international sensation, a red-carpet favourite, and one of the most admired actresses in the world, she received unexpected but sincere advice urging her to stay away from Bollywood. The counsel came from none other than Sanjay Dutt, a star who had already witnessed the film industry’s highs and lows first-hand. Their interaction dates back to 1993, a time when Aishwarya was a rising model and yet to step into films, while Dutt was already a well-known actor navigating the turbulent world of cinema.
At the time, Aishwarya had not yet signed any films, though offers were coming her way. Her modelling career had brought her nationwide fame, and she drew attention wherever she went. But behind the admiration, there was a sense of caution from those who understood the pressures of the industry. Sanjay Dutt was among the first to recognise both her potential and the challenges she would face.
A chance meeting that left an impression
In 1993, Aishwarya and Sanjay Dutt crossed paths during a magazine photoshoot. For Dutt, the meeting was memorable from the very first moment. He recalled seeing her in a commercial and immediately wondering, “Who’s that beautiful woman!” When they finally met, he expressed his appreciation for her presence, a compliment that made the young model visibly blush.
Dutt later shared that his sisters, Priya Dutt and Namrata Dutt, were equally struck by Aishwarya’s elegance and warmth. At that time, she was already a familiar face in India’s modelling industry, but Bollywood was still a decision she had not made. Yet, even before she stepped into films, those around her could sense her star power.
Sanjay Dutt’s warning about the demanding film world
Although Sanjay Dutt admired Aishwarya’s beauty and demeanour, he also felt compelled to warn her about the realities of entering the film industry. Drawing from his own experiences, he spoke candidly about how Bollywood can transform a person, often stripping away innocence and softening qualities that make them unique.
He told CineBlitz, “When you come into this glamour industry, it starts changing you, maturing you, that innocence is lost. That beautiful side that she has right now on her face will disappear. Because she has to handle the film world right and that is not easy to do.”
Dutt highlighted the competitiveness of the industry, explaining how an actor’s journey is marked by constant comparison and a relentless struggle to stay ahead. “You climb two steps and there will be 500 people pulling you down five steps. And you become hard. And those beautiful qualities are gone,” he said.
His words were not meant to discourage her but to prepare her for an environment where success, fame, and relationships are often unpredictable.
Aishwarya Rai’s understanding of Bollywood’s tougher side
Aishwarya Rai listened to his advice attentively and acknowledged the truth in his concerns. Even at a young age, she displayed maturity in recognising the demanding nature of the film world. Reflecting on his warning, she said, “I suppose that’s true. There are so many things you’ve got to handle that I suppose it does harden you.”
Her response showed not only grace but a thoughtful awareness of the challenges she might face if she chose to pursue acting. Though she was receiving offers, she remained selective and determined not to enter the industry unless she found a role she genuinely connected with.
Sanjay Dutt on the emotional unpredictability of the industry
Sanjay Dutt further elaborated on the emotional dynamics within Bollywood, stating that friendships and support often shift depending on one’s success. “It’s too professional, there are no feelings in this industry. You’ve got to be ready for the fact that if you’re not doing well, no one will be there for you,” he said.
He added that when success is on one’s side, people will naturally gather, but when the spotlight fades, isolation becomes unavoidable. His remarks were a stark reminder of the volatility that comes with fame.
Aishwarya Rai eventually chose her own path into films
Despite the warnings, Aishwarya Rai followed her instincts when it came to entering Bollywood. She declined several early offers—including the blockbuster Raja Hindustani, opposite Aamir Khan—because the roles did not resonate with her.
Her official debut came in 1997 with Mani Ratnam’s Iruvar, a critically acclaimed Tamil film that showcased her acting potential. In the same year, she made her Hindi film debut in Aur Pyaar Ho Gaya, starring alongside Bobby Deol. From there, her journey only soared, ultimately establishing her as one of the most celebrated actresses in Indian cinema and a global cultural ambassador.
Conclusion
Though Sanjay Dutt once advised her to avoid Bollywood for her own emotional well-being, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan entered the industry on her own terms. She not only survived the pressures he warned about, but thrived, becoming one of the most recognised faces in Indian and global entertainment. Their early conversation remains a fascinating glimpse into the unpredictability of stardom and the wisdom shared between two actors at pivotal moments in their journeys.