Aishwarya releases statement to media on the Salman issue:

By Bollywood Hungama -

August 4, 2003 - 12:00 AM IST

Salman Khan bombarded Aishwarya Rai with SMSs on the same night he allegedly telephoned Vivek Oberoi and threatened to kill him. He allegedly even telephoned Aishwarya, pretending to be director Sanjay Leela Bhansali. Exclusive details available with Mid Day show that Salman first messaged Aishwarya at 2.30 am on the 31st March, two hours after he had made his first call to Vivek Oberoi. He then SMSed Aishwarya 15 more times until 9.12 am. He allegedly even called her, pretending to be Sanjay Leela Bhansali. While strongly refuting allegations that she has been in constant touch with Salman, a harassed Aishwarya has released a signed statement given to the media, the text of which is as follows. My duty towards all those who believe in me and love me, compels to make the following statement, even though I had always believed in dignity of silence. In the wake of recent rumours regarding the proposed feature film Baji Rao Mastani, I take this opportunity to clarify my stand and end all speculations! Some recent reactions and retaliations, unnecessarily involving me have been wrongly projected, and there have been reports of me agreeing to work with Mr Salman Khan in Baji Rao Mastani. The truth is, from the very first meeting with Mr Sanjay Leela Bhansali with regard to this feature film Baji Rao Mastani, I have categorically declined to work with Mr Salman Khan and my family is a witness to this. Yes, Mr Sanjay Leela Bhansali and I have had a wonderful and fabulous working relationship so far, with memorable films like Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam and Devdas; but sadly, and for obviously personal and disturbing reasons, I cannot accept to work with Mr Salman Khan. For the sake of my well-being, my sanity, my dignity; and the dignity and self-respect of my family, I will not work with Mr Salman Khan.The Salman-chapter was a nightmare in my life and I am thankful to God that it is over! While I have maintained a dignified silence about him and his wrong-doings, he (his family and friends) has repeatedly attacked the respect, dignity and pride of me and my family (with irresponsible rumour mongering). I stood by him enduring his misbehaviour in worst phases and in turn, I was at the receiving end of his abuse (verbal, physical, emotional), infidelity and indignity. That is why, like any other self-respecting woman, and God is witness, I said enough, and ended it almost two years ago. But because of a dignified silence, they all have misrepresented my stand, and spread rumours about my character, baselessly alleged affairs and have tried to spoil healthy working relations with co-stars. I do not want to get into the gory details and obnoxious experiences; which would incite washing dirty linen and other ugly untruths.I have just to clarify this! For a very long time now, they have time and time again, tried to wreck my peace and sanity, both personally and professionally. But they all forget No-one can play God; because there is a God! That is the only truth. He is witness to everything! My Belief in God, and my family has stood by me in solidarity, giving me the strength to rise above it all. And I must add, that it has been very easy for some members of the film industry, media or social circles to flag opinions, when they have not been at the receiving end. And when so many of them, God knows, have been witnesses, and in knowledge of the truth. This is truly sad. Contrary to rumours, I do not call him! On the contrary, he has tried calling me and messaging me recently on the pretext of this film Baji Rao Mastani, and has even used Mr Sanjay Leela Bhansali's identity. I have been compelled to make this otherwise trivial validation in print, because of the continuous lies and false stories being circulated (by a strong clique).Honestly, I do not have the time, energy and manpower (in media or social circuit) to keep re-iterating validations against every (and seemingly constant) false stories or allegations. On the end-note, I am choosing to do the kind of films, roles and directors I want to work with and enjoy the experience of the film. This way I can cherish the making of each film and give my best to every role and assignment that I accept, with peace and happiness intact. And that, is of utmost importance Peace within and all around. I have just come out of a near fatal accident miraculously only with an ankle fracture and a couple of wounds and abrasions; completely. An act of God; and this is No Exaggeration! God is extremely kind, and I sincerely thank my friends and well-wishers for all their prayers, blessings and good wishes I cherish them dearly, as I take this time out to recover and heal. God Bless all!