Aishwarya Rai in a classic Kerala sari: White and gold

Exquisite Aishwarya Rai in (the flawed but successful) film Hamara Dil Aapke Paas Hai

In the 2000 drama Hamara Dil Aapke Paas Hai, Aishwarya Rai delivered one of her most poignant performances in her early career. Playing Preeti Vyas - a brave woman who faces ostracization and trauma after being assaulted for testifying against a criminal- she anchored the film’s heavy narrative with grace, dignity, and quiet strength. Critics praised Rai for delivering a restrained, emotionally layered portrayal that transcended conventional melodrama. Her delicate dynamic with co-star Anil Kapoor provided the film its emotional core, earning praise for treating a heavy theme with sensitivity. Her acclaimed portrayal earned her a nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Actress, and Ash was 26 years old at the time, looking exquisite in her Neeta Lulla and Manish Malhotra designed costumes.  

Rai had an extraordinarily busy year in 2000 with 6 total releases across Hindi and Tamil cinema:

Film	Language	Box Office Outcome
Mela	Hindi	Flop (Special appearance)
Kandukondain Kandukondain	Tamil	Critical & Commercial Hit
Josh	Hindi	Hit
Hamara Dil Aapke Paas Hai	Hindi	Hit / Semi-Hit
Dhai Akshar Prem Ke	Hindi	Flop
Mohabbatein	Hindi	Major Blockbuster

Despite mixed reviews for the movie's comedic subplots, Hamara Dil Aapke Paas Hai emerged as a box office success. 

The 90s was a confused era as the media couldn't decide who was the top actress of the decade as Karisma Kapoor and Manisha Koirala tussled for the top spot. By the turn of the millennium, there was no question, it was the reign of Rai.