Dubai: “All you beautiful people, Salam Alaikum, Namaste,” Aishwarya Rai Bachchan greeted the audience, waving as fans and photographers swarmed her at the fifth Red Sea International Film Festival.

Over the years, several Indian beauty queens have transitioned from the pageant stage to the silver screen, leaving an indelible mark on Bollywood. These women, celebrated for their grace and talent, ...