Aishwarya Rai

Now that her problems with the customs department have ended , there are joyful tidings for Aishwarya Rai. She’s back in Jaipur shooting with Hrithik Roshan for Ashutosh Gowariker’s Jodha-Akbar.

“it’s going great!” Ash exults from Jaipur as she prepares for the day’s shoot . So has she done any horse riding and sword-fighting as yet? “None of the above. But i rode an elephant for a scene . And his name was Lakhi. After Dhoom 2 and its hi-tech ambience and accessories , entering a world of elephants and Mughal grandeur is a true culture shock. And a real challenge for both Hrithik and me after Dhoom. But what’s the life of an actor without challenges? i’m at a stage in my career where i need to constantly re-invent myself.”

About the elephant ride, Ash explains with a giggle, “it wasn’t exactly a unique experience. i’ve ridden an elephant before for Gurinder Chaddha’s Bride & Prejudice, though very briefly. in Jodha-Akbar everything is far more elaborate. i guess i must be the only actress of my generation to have taken two elephant rides.”