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Shah Rukh Khan and Aishwarya Rai’s fallout in the 2000s led to professional and personal tensions. Jaya Bachchan candidly addressed SRK’s comments.
Shah Rukh Khan and Aishwarya Rai are two of the most celebrated names in Indian cinema, known for their unparalleled talent and unforgettable on-screen chemistry. From their charismatic pairing in films like Josh (2000) and Devdas (2002) to their dramatic fallout, their relationship has often been a topic of intrigue. However, behind their blockbuster collaborations lies a story of professional and personal discord that shaped the trajectory of their partnership.
In the early 2000s, their bond soured for reasons still shrouded in mystery, despite widespread speculation. During this period, Aishwarya revealed she was removed from several projects with SRK, including Chalte Chalte and Veer Zaara. Reflecting on the fallout, Aishwarya noted the impact it had on her career, though Shah Rukh later extended an apology, and the two eventually reconciled.
The fallout also created ripples within the Bachchan family. Jaya Bachchan, Aishwarya’s mother-in-law and a close confidante of Shah Rukh, openly expressed her disappointment in him for remarks he made during that period.
In a 2008 interview with People magazine, Jaya addressed her feelings, saying, “Of course, I do,” when asked if she still held anything against him. She elaborated, “I haven’t had the opportunity to discuss it with him and I am going to speak to him about it. If he was at my home, I would have slapped him, just as I would my own son. But I have connected with him in my soul, and that’s it.” Despite her disappointment, she admitted, “I have a weakness for Shah Rukh.”
Shah Rukh’s absence at Aishwarya and Abhishek Bachchan’s wedding in 2007 was another indication of lingering tensions. Reports suggested the Devdas co-stars were not on speaking terms after their fallout during Chalte Chalte. Addressing this, Jaya candidly said, “Is Aishwarya going to invite him for the wedding? Let me tell you, very honestly, if we could have invited him, we would have changed the date of the wedding. I would like to give my family the freedom and the space.”
Over time, however, the relationship between SRK and the Bachchan family appeared to mend, demonstrating the enduring complexity of their dynamic.