Bollywood icon Aishwarya Rai may find herself in "Rush Hour 3" after Sheeraz Hasan, producer of a US entertainment show, initiated talks between the actress and Hollywood director Brett Ratner.

Hasan, who was feted at the Indian Telly Awards here Friday, recommended Aishwarya's name while interviewing Ratner for his show, Tinseltown TV.

Ratner, whose latest release is the Salma Hayek-Pierce Brosnan film "After the Sunset", had told Hasan that he was willing to cast a Bollywood actress in his forthcoming project, but that he knew no one in the Mumbai film industry.

Hasan immediately recommended Aishwarya as a possible candidate citing her reputation as "the world's most beautiful woman".

The actress' secretary Simone Sheffield and Ratner have reportedly got in touch. Ratner's "Rush Hour" franchise, starring Chris Tucker and Hong Kong star Jackie Chan, has grossed over $600 million in the US.

"I think Aishwarya's chances in Hollywood are excellent. Hollywood is always looking for the next big star. Being an Indian will give Aishwarya a unique edge over Western actresses," Hasan told IANS.

London-born Hasan hosts a popular show that aims to project a positive image of Hollywood to a global audience.

"In my interviews, I ask Hollywood stars about their spiritual life, what they do to stay focused and what god means to them," said Hasan.

Hasan, whose rags-to-riches story is an embodiment of the American dream, has extensive contacts in Hollywood and may be able to facilitate a massive crossover of Bollywood talent.

Rowland Perkins, founder of Creative Artists Agency, Hollywood's biggest talent agency, recently said: "No one ever turns down an interview with Sheeraz."

Hasan, who plans to create different TV shows for worldwide markets, concluded that Bollywood's importance in the global film market could no longer be ignored.