Aishwarya Rai all set to play a negative role in Mani Ratnam’s next

Monitoring Desk

MUMBAI: Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is all set to reunite with maverick filmmaker Mani Ratnam for a period-drama. Set in the 10th century, the film is based on the life of the great Chola Emperor Arulmozhi Varman.

Aishwarya will be seen playing the manipulative wife of the emperor. As per a daily, “The story takes place in the 10th century before Raja Chola became a king. Aishwarya will be seen as Nandini, the wife of Periya Pazhuvettaraiyar, who served as the chancellor and treasurer of the Chola kingdom. Her character is written as a mysterious, power-hungry woman who manipulates her husband to plan the downfall of the Chola Empire because she has been wronged by them.” It’s not first time when Aishwarya will be seen in negative role. Earlier, she has played grey characters in Khakee (2005) and Dhoom (2006). 

Aishwarya had made her acting debut with the filmmaker in Iruvar in 1997. Post that they worked in Guru (2007) and Ravan (2010). A source close to the development told a leading daily, “Aishwarya was approached for the project last year. But she bid her time, understanding the layers of her character before giving the nod last month. Contrary to reports, Amitabh Bachchan is not part of the movie. Mohan Babu will play Aishwarya’s husband.”

Mani Ratnam is planning to take this multi-starrer film on floors by end of this year.