Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is no stranger to turning down big projects, and Happy New Year is one such film that didn’t make it to her impressive filmography. In a recent interview, Aishwarya shared why she had to reject the opportunity to star in Farah Khan’s hit film alongside Shah Rukh Khan and her husband, Abhishek Bachchan.

“Yes, I was offered the film, and it did seem like quite a fun trip,” Aishwarya recalled, reflecting on the potential the movie had. However, she explained that it wouldn’t have been ideal for both her and husband Abhishek Bachchan to appear in the film without being paired together. “We wouldn’t be cast opposite each other. It would be really, really weird, right? That’s why I had to decline it,” she said.

Known for her selectiveness in choosing roles, Aishwarya last graced the screen in Mani Ratnam’s Ponniyin Selvan films, where she portrayed the powerful character Nandini. The films received critical acclaim and multiple National Awards. Meanwhile, despite swirling rumours about her marriage with Abhishek being in trouble, the couple continues to maintain their dignified silence, focusing on their family and careers.