On the day of her birthday, the most beautiful woman in the world, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has been named Smile Train's first Goodwill Ambassador. Smile Train, which was formed ten years ago and has till date help more than five lakh children worldwide, is the world's largest cleft charity. It is only befitting that they have selected Aishwarya as their ambassador since she is recognized as being one of the top hundred most influential people in the world and we applaud Aish's gesture of using her influence to help such a good cause. Smile Train will work together with the Aishwarya Rai Foundation in order to create awareness and build resources to reach a goal of helping one million children who suffer shame and isolation as a result of cleft lip and cleft palate. Aish's work will help Smile train provide free cleft surgery for children in seventy eight developing countries.

"God has given me plenty of reasons to smile and I feel it's time to spread it around. There are a lot of children out there who so desperately need help, but can't receive timely care because their families cannot afford this surgery or are ill educated about this condition. Working with Smile Train, if I can make a difference in their lives, it will certainly make me feel honoured and blessed" says Aishwarya who on a day when most of us expect only to receive gifts, has in fact given a priceless gift to so many children around the world.

As aptly stated by Smile Train President, Brian Mullaney, "Aishwarya's universal appeal and star power will be a priceless asset to our organization, and we consider it a great privilege to have her represent our organization…Her poise, intelligence and dedication to our mission will catapult the work that we do to new and exciting heights."

Happy birthday Aish, and thank you for bringing a smile to the faces of so many children who never thought they would be able to smile so freely.