It’s been nearly 25 years since Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam graced the silver screen, yet the film continues to be remembered not just for its cinematic brilliance but also for the real-life romance that unfolded behind the scenes. Salman Khan and Aishwarya Rai, the lead pair of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s 1999 romantic drama, fell in love during the making of the film. Their chemistry was undeniable, and according to co-star Smita Jaykar, who played Aishwarya’s mother in the film, that off-screen affection significantly enhanced the film’s emotional intensity.
In a recent interview with Filmymantra, Smita opened up about the couple’s dynamic on set. “Their affair flourished there. And it helped the film a lot. Both of them had those moony-moony eyes, and romance was showing on their faces. That worked very well for the film,” she said, adding that their real emotions translated into authentic on-screen performances that elevated the storytelling.
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Reflecting on Salman Khan’s personality during those days, Smita Jaykar described him as “quite a brat,” but also “a very nice, large-hearted person.” She noted that while he was known for his temper, she never witnessed him get angry on set. “People tend to exaggerate when it comes to film personalities. We don’t always know the other person’s side—what they did to provoke that anger,” she pointed out.
Smita also had kind words for Aishwarya Rai, calling her naturally beautiful and grounded. “Without makeup, too, she looked so pretty. Very humble, very grounded—at least at that time when I knew her,” she said.
Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam remains the only film in which Salman Khan and Aishwarya Rai played love interests, although they briefly shared screen space in cameo appearances in Dhaai Akshar Prem Ke and Hum Tumhare Hain Sanam. While their real-life romance was short-lived, it left a lasting impression on fans and became a memorable chapter in Bollywood history.
