Balancing home and work not just domain of women: Ash

Mumbai, Jan 25 (UNI) Bollywood actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan wonders why only female working professionals are asked about how they balance home and work after marriage.

''Balancing commitments and prioritising them is applicable even to men and not just my gender. Focus on what needs your commitment at what time as time is precious. Balancing commitments and being true to your reality is important,'' the actress said while talking to reporters last night after launching ''Lux Provocateur'', a new black soap from the Lux brand.

Ash, who has been the brand ambassador of ''Lux'' for nine years said black lux arouses curiousity and intrigue among the consumers.

''Black Lux is very innovative and transcends the barriers of colour bias. Normally, consumers would ask how a black soap would clean their skin,'' she added.

Replying to questions, the actress said beauty knew no colour and tone variations. ''We do not chose the colour of our skin that we are born with. Black is mysterious to some and white is fascinating to many. The black soap bar was reminiscent of women who command attention by their mystery,'' she felt.

The former beauty queen said the year 2007 has been an eventful year for her personally and professionally.

The actress said she was awaiting the release of ''Jodhaa Akbar'' next month and was eager to know the reaction of the audiences to Ashutosh Gowarikar's labour of love. ''It has been a sincere and painstaking effort of all those involved in the project,'' she added.

Working in ''Sarkar Raj'' and ''Pink Panther'' has given her creative satisfaction, she said. Responding to a question on international projects which include films on the Bhopal gas tragedy and Shahjehan, Ash said ideas have been exchanged on both movies. As far as the Bhopal tragedy film is concerned, it is still in the process of scripting. ''When I get a full bound script, I will know where the project stands,'' she added.

Referring to Ben Kinsgley's ''Shahjehan'', Ash said he told her that after ''Gandhi'', it would be ideal to come back to explore India with ''Shahjehan''. ''Even this film is in the script development process,''she added.

Ash was also approached for Rajnikant starrer ''Robot''. ''If dates and schedules work out well, it will be a positive response from my side,'' she said.

When asked how she plans to celebrate hubby Abhishek's birthday on February 5, Ash replied, ''It will be special.'' To a query on the secret of her beauty, Ash said, ''Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder. However, the love and affection of her fans, family and friends make her glow. It is neccessary to be real and stay connected with true self. Beauty radiates from within.

Titles like beauty queen are transient. Being who you are is constant.'' She said the Lux brand symbolised tradition and glamour. ''It has been a tradition for a female actor to be associated with this brand. I feel privileged to be part of it for nine years,'' she added.

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