A secretary to Aishwarya Rai - Indian film star and former Miss World - claims she is about to start talks that could see her star in Bond 21.

Hari Singh - Rai's personal secretary - claims that EON productions, who are being represented by a London-based agency, have approached the actress to discuss a role in the next film - Bond 21.

He told AFP:
"It is still premature. But the agency guys are in town and have shown interest in discussing the role with Aishwarya."

"I cannot name the agency as it is confidential. But they are keen to cast her."

"Let us see what Aishwarya says".

He went on to say that talks have had to be delayed as Rai fractured her foot in an accident on Wednesday.

If the talks are successful, Aishwarya Rai would become the first ever Indian Bond girl in the series that has spanned 40 years.

Bond last visited India back in 1983's Octopussy.

Aishwarya Rai was born in Mangalore, Karnataka, India on 1st November 1973 - the younger of two siblings (her brother is three years older). She moved to Bombay aged 4 when her father, who worked as a merchant navy officer, was posted there. Aishwarya did her schooling at Arya Vidya Mandir, Santacruz and earned a position as the head girl of her school.

Whilst studying architecture at college, Aishwarya had started her modelling career - which ultimately led her to take a break from architecture and concentrate on modelling full time.

From that point there was no looking back. Aishwarya became a household name with the Pepsi ad campaign and was crowned Femina Miss India World in 1994. She went on to the world stage and became Miss World title at Sun City the same year.

Rai joined the Bollywood film industry and has worked on many high-profile films. Commended by her credibility in acting and dancing, she is now considered as one of the hottest Indian actresses around.

Her film projects for 2003 include "Khakee", "Kyon Ho Gaya Na", "Dil Ka Rishta" and "The Heart of India" is scheduled for 2004.

Aishwarya Rai began modelling an early age whilst she was still in 9th grade. Her career began when a college professor who was a keen photographer asked Rai to model in a shoot - this chance event led her to get noticed by advertising agencies.

She was launched into the limelight with a hugely successful Pepsi campaign. Rai has also modelled for Palmolive and Philips among many other.

Shakti: The Power (2002), Hum Kisi Se Kum Nahin (2002), Devdas (2002) , Albela (2001)
Mohabbatein (2000), Dhai Akshar Prem Ke (2000), Hamara Dil Aapke Paas Hai (2000)
Josh (2000), Kandukondain Kandukondain (2000), Mela (2000), Taal (1999), Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999), Aa Ab Laut Chalen (1999), Jeans (1998), Iruvar (1997), Mamagaru (1991)