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Veteran actress Smita Jaykar, who essayed the role of Aishwarya Rai’s mother in 'Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam', has offered a rare glimpse into one of Bollywood’s most talked-about romances of the early 2000s, that of Salman Khan and Aishwarya Rai. In a recent interview with Filmymantra Media, Smita confirmed that their love story blossomed on the film’s sets, and interestingly, it also served to elevate the movie's emotional intensity.

“Yes, they fell in love there. Their affair flourished there. And it helped the film a lot,” Smita said, recalling their growing bond during the shoot. She added that the mutual affection between the two reflected in their performances, enhancing the romantic tension on screen. “Both of them had those moony-moony eyes, and romance was showing on their faces. That worked very well for the film,” she shared.

Reminiscing about the film’s production days, Smita described the atmosphere on set as one filled with camaraderie, even recalling the cast playing Antakshari together like one big family. She also opened up about her personal impressions of both Salman and Aishwarya. Calling Salman “a brat” in an endearing way, she described him as “large-hearted” and someone who didn’t easily lose his temper. 

She also described Aishwarya as “very humble, very grounded” and praised her natural beauty, saying, “Aishwarya is very beautiful. Without makeup, too, she looked so pretty.”

About 'Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam'

'Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam', a 1999 Indian romantic drama, was masterfully directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and starred Salman Khan, Ajay Devgn, and Aishwarya Rai in pivotal roles.

A significant commercial success, the movie emerged as one of the highest-grossing Indian films of its year, raking in an impressive Rs 510 million. Critically acclaimed, it garnered 17 nominations at the 45th Filmfare Awards, securing seven prestigious wins, including Best Film, Best Director, Best Actress and Best Male Playback Singer.

Though the romance between Salman and Aishwarya eventually ended in 2002, their chemistry in the film is still remembered fondly by fans. Aishwarya later married actor Abhishek Bachchan, while Salman continues to remain one of the industry’s most eligible bachelors.