Ash Says No to Reality TV

Right through her two back-to-back releases " Action Replayy" and now " Guzaarish" Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's decision to not appear on any reality show to promote her films may have raised some eyebrows.

But the lovely lady is very clear in her head about what she wants to do, and doesn't want to do. Says a source, "There was considerable pressure on Aishwarya to be on these reality shows for her two back-to-back releases. But she is very clear about her dos and don'ts. Being on reality is a complete no-no for her. She did make an exception for Akshay's "Master Chef". But no song and dance reality shows for Aishwarya. And no game shows. Two weeks ago she stayed away from "Kaun Banega Crorepati" as part of the promotion for "Action Replayy". This week Aishwarya refused to go on the popular music contest "Sa Re Ga Ma Pa". Hrithik Roshan had to go alone."

After Hrithik recorded his episode of "Sa Ra Ga Ma Pa" he and Aishwarya left for Dubai and London on Wednesday for the promotion of "Guzaarish". Aishwarya's directors are not the least bitter about her abstinence from reality shows. Says Sanjay Leela Bhansali, "I completely respect her decision because I know she is not doing it as a fashion statement. Aishwarya truly believes in whatever she does. So there's never that doubt that she is just doing it throw her weight around. Her decisions are always well thought-out."

And Aishwarya's decision to stay away from reality shows is certainly well thought-out. Though at the moment it's all very hush-hush she's being roped in to be a part of a big television show at a price that no other female star from Bollywood can even dream of.

Says a source, "Aishwarya wants to use the home medium only for the show that she's planning with a channel. Until then she will be seen on television only when her films are telecast."