My family is above everything, says Aishw

After Cannes, she could have gone straight to Chennai to join director Mani Ratnam's unit of "Guru". But she preferred to spend 24 hours with her family.

Tuesday was double-celebration time in the Rai household. It was not only the birthday of Aishwarya's mother but also her brother's marriage anniversary. It was an occasion that the actress couldn't afford to miss.

"Whatever little time I get from my work between schedules, I'd like to spend with my family," Aishwarya told IANS.

And after spending a day in Chennai, Aishwarya rushed back to Mumbai for the very special occasion.

"I always prioritise my family above everything and everyone else. When all seems lost it is the family that stands by you," she said.

Incidentally, Rani Mukerji is another family-oriented Bollywood diva. She gave up the pleasure of representing her film "Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna" at the 59th Cannes Film Festival with director Karan Johar for the joy of staying home with her newly-born nephew.