Subhash Ghai’s Taal Casting Doubts Changed After Watching Iruvar

Subhash Ghai was choosing an actress for his musical film Taal.

Saroj Khan suggested Aishwarya Rai because the role required strong dancing skills.

Ghai initially thought Rai was mainly connected with modelling, beauty pageants and glamour.

He was unsure whether she could play a simple small-town character.

Then he watched Iruvar, her acting debut directed by Mani Ratnam.

Her performance convinced him that she was right for Taal.

Rai played a character named Mansi.

Ghai asked her to begin the film without makeup and become more glamorous as the story progressed.

Taal was released in 1999 and became a major success.