Aishwarya bats for Shankar

This was one audio launch the Tamil film industry was not going to forget very soon. After all, it's not everyday that you get Aishwarya Rai Bachchan to release an audio album.

The actress was in Chennai with her mother to shoot for Shankar's Enthiran. When the Tamil filmmaker requested her to release the album of his other production, Rettai Suzhi, she readily agreed. 

Like Kadhal, Imsai Arasan 23aam Pulikesi and Veyil, Rettai Suzhi is also expected to be a different experience.

The film is directed by Thamira, K Balachander's protege.

Aishwarya's connection with the Tamil film industry started 12 years ago when she made her debut in Mani Ratnam's Iruvar.

She has also acted in a double role in Shankar's Jeans. "In many ways, Jeans was the reason where I am now. It taught me a lot technically," she said.

She has also acted in Rajeev Menon's Kandu Kondein Kandu Kondein besides Mani Ratnam's bilinguals Guru and the latest Ravan.

Shankar's Enthiran in which she is paired opposite the Tamil super star is touted as the costliest film ever made in India.

"It is humbling to be a part of an event like this and share the dais with giants like K Balachander sir and Bharatiraja sir. It is a red letter day in my life. It has also been a great learning experience working with Shankar Sir," Aishwarya said.

Aishwarya looking ravishing in a white sari sat next to K Balachander who said he was "thrilled" when he was offered a seat next to the actress.

Interestingly, Thamira has achieved a coup of sorts by getting the two senior most directors in Tamil cinema -- K Balachander and Bharatiraja -- in his film.

Music of Rettai Suzhi is by Karthik Raja.