Subhash K Jha (DNA; January 20, 2014)

She started her acting career with Mani Ratnam’s Iruvar, and now it looks like Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is all set to make a comeback to screen after a long maternity leave with a film to be directed by her debut film director. Mani is very close to both Abhishek and Aishwarya. He has worked with the couple in Guru and Raavan. But for his next he wants only the actress.

Says a source, “Mani is planning to direct a film which has a strong female protagonist’s character. He feels there is little room for Abhishek in his next.” It is learnt that Ash has given her consent to her presence in Mani’s next.

Adds an insider, “Aishwarya was very clear about her priorities after she became a mother. She gave hundred per cent of her time and concentration to her daughter Aaraadhya for two years. Now that Aaraadhya is ready for play school, Aishwarya can start thinking of coming back to acting.” She was keen to return with a film directed by either of her two favourite directors — Sanjay Leela Bhansali or Mani Ratnam. Continues the source, “She was all but finalised for the item song in SLB’s Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-leela. But she wanted some changes in the lyrics which Sanjay refused. While she’s looking forward to working with SLB she’s all set to return with Mani’s next project.”

The movie-making genius’ career has been under a cloud. His last two films, Raavan and Kadalan, have bombed and been heavily panned by critics as well. “Mani too needs to make a comeback,” says the source.