# Subhash Ghai reveals risking Aishwarya Rai’s image for Taal

2026-08-13T11:47:14+00:00 | Entertainment | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 1 independent outlet

Twenty-seven years after Taal's release, director Subhash Ghai has revealed that he deliberately set out to destroy Aishwarya Rai's polished 'cosmetic queen' image to prove she could be a serious actress. Speaking to NDTV, Ghai said he told Rai he would damage her established persona and rebuild it for the film's earthy character. The gamble extended to signing AR Rahman for the music, which became a hit. Rai, then fresh from her Miss World win, agreed to the risky plan.

## Coverage

- ndtv.com <https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/liked-akshaye-khannas-intensity-had-to-destroy-aishwarya-rais-image-27-years-later-subhash-ghai-reveals-the-big-risk-behind-taals-casting-11903935#publisher=newsstand>

Tags: Aishwarya Rai, Bollywood, casting, Subhash Ghai, Taal
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