Aishwarya turns 49: Top 5 performances that prove she's one of the finest actors

There's no denying the fact that Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is one of the biggest and most celebrated names in Indian cinema. The winner of the Miss World 1994 pageant,  Ash enjoys a very strong fan following not just in India but across the globe. Known for her impressive screen presence, humble nature, and wise selection of roles, Aishwarya has given several Blockbusters that set the cash registers ringing at the box office, proving that her star power is second to none. Today, as Aishwarya turns 49, we take a look at five movies that prove she is talent personnified.

Aishwarya turns 49: Top 5 performances that prove she's one of the finest actors

Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999): A blockbuster hit at the box office, this movie revolved helmed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali revolves around an aspiring singer (Salman Khan) who falls in love with his teacher's daughter, played by Aishwarya Rai. The film is best remembered for the complex equations between the protagonists and its stellar soundtrack. Credit: Special Arrangement

Taal (1999): Directed by Subhash Ghai, Taal featured Aishwarya in the role of a naive young woman who becomes an overnight sensation after signing a contract with a flamboyant music producer. The movie hit the right notes with its engaging plot and phenomenal music. Credit: Special Arrangement

Devdas (2002): Devdas directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali is regarded as one of the classics of Indian cinema. The film revolves around Devdas Mukherjee (SRK), whose life goes downhill after his family forbids him from marrying Paro, (Aishwarya Rai). He then turns to alcohol and seeks refuge with a prostitute Chandramukhi (Madhuri Dixit). In this period romantic drama Aishwarya Rai Bachchan essayed the role of Paro which for her several awards that year. Credit: Special Arrangement

Guru (2007): Widely regarded as one of the finest movies of Aishwarya's career, the Mani Ratnam-directed drama featured Ash as the leading lady opposite Abhishek Bachchan and emerged a commercial success. Credit: Special Arrangement

Jodhaa Akbar (2008): The grand period drama revolved around the life of the Mughal emperor Akbar, highlighting his relationship with his wife Jodhaa. The film marked Aishwarya's second major collaboration with Dhoom 2 co-star Hrithik Roshan. The film emerging a success while receiving rave reviews from the target audience. Credit: Special Arrangement