Sonam Kapoor Justified Calling Aishwarya Rai Aunty Due To Work With Father Anil Kapoor

Actress Sonam Kapoor's past controversial remarks regarding fellow actress Aishwarya Rai have resurfaced, highlighting her explanation for once calling the star "aunty." Kapoor justified the comment by explaining that Rai had previously worked with her father, Anil Kapoor, in the film industry.

The initial controversy began in 2009 when Kapoor, who debuted in the 2007 film 'Saawariya', was announced as the face of a global beauty brand. Rai had previously served as the brand ambassador, and reports at the time suggested she had stepped back from certain endorsements to pave the way for a younger face.

Following the announcement, Kapoor publicly referred to the 36-year-old Rai as an "aunty from another generation." The remark sparked widespread debate and drew accusations of age-shaming from critics. Rai, however, maintained a dignified silence and did not publicly react to the comments.

Kapoor, who is also known for her roles in films such as 'Delhi-6', 'Aisha', 'Raanjhanaa', and 'Neerja', later clarified her statement during an interview with Hindustan Times. Clarifying her choice of words, Kapoor said, "Aish has worked with my dad, so I have to call her aunty, na!"

In subsequent years, Kapoor made efforts to publicly praise Rai. In 2016, she defended Rai's choice of bold purple lipstick at the Cannes International Film Festival. Speaking to PTI, Kapoor stated that the choice looked great and praised Rai for carrying it off with aplomb.

Any remaining speculation of a feud ended in 2018 during Kapoor's wedding to Anand Ahuja. After Kapoor's mother, Sunita Kapoor, met Rai at a reception hosted by designer Sandeep Khosla's relatives, she personally invited Rai to the wedding. Kapoor followed up with her own invitation, and Rai's subsequent attendance at the festivities signaled an end to any rumored bad blood.