After marking 19 years of marriage, Abhishek Bachchan has shared heartfelt insights into his journey with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan—a love story that didn’t begin with instant certainty but grew over time.

Recalling their first meeting on the sets of Dhai Akshar Prem Ke in 2000, Abhishek said, “There was no inkling back then of what was to come… But did I suspect she was my soulmate? No!” Their early interactions remained friendly, even when they reunited for Kuch Naa Kaho.

It wasn’t until 2006, during the making of Umrao Jaan, that things changed. Abhishek described this phase as the moment when there was finally “a spark.” Their connection deepened further while working on Guru, directed by Mani Ratnam. It was at the film’s New York premiere that Abhishek proposed—on a balcony he had once dreamed of sharing with her.

Reflecting on their life together, he said, “Today, Ash is not just the mother of my daughter… but also my soulmate. Nineteen years of our marriage has been a dream. I have big plans for our twentieth anniversary, but I am not telling you about them now.”

Adding humour, Abhishek revealed his take on a happy marriage: “Every night, before you sleep, say ‘Sorry’ three times to your wife without fail.”

Aishwarya, too, has spoken fondly about their relationship, saying, “He is original and real, like our relationship… The gesture was spontaneous and meaningful.” From friendship to a lifelong partnership, their journey continues to inspire fans across generations.