Aishwarya Rai was Sunday felicitated by the Miss World Organisation at the 64th edition of the international beauty pageant for her commitment to "beauty with a purpose" since winning the crown two decades ago.

Described as embodiment of beauty with purpose, Aishwarya is also seen as the most successful Miss World so far, a title that she won in 1994.

"I stand here overwhelmed by this honour. I thank Miss World Organization for such an incredible honour that I have received..." she said in her acceptance speech.

"To have the opportunity to hold the title, to wear the crown with pride... that was my one time to go out there and experience beauty with a purpose...," said the actress looking gorgeous in shimmery gown.


The 41-year-old was accompanied by her mother Vrinda, husband and actor Abhishek Bachchan and three-year-old daughter Aaradhya on the stage.

Having starred in movies like "Devdas" and "Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam", she is now a regular at the prestigious Cannes film festival.

Meanwhile, Koyal Rana, India's representative at the Miss World this year, could only make it to the top 10. The crown went to Miss South Africa.