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MUMBAI: Yesterday was the 39th Birthday of the most beautiful woman in the world – Former Miss World and reigning Bollywood actress – Aishwarya Rai Bachchan.

Making this birthday even more exciting for the ethereal beauty, France honored the Bachchan Bahu with a prestigious civilian award for her contribution to art.

For Aishwarya, this birthday was special to begin with, because little Aaradhya’s birthday is merely two weeks away.

Ambassador of France to India, Francois Richier conferred the hour of Chevalier dans l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters) upon the actress.

After the ‘second highest civilian French honour’ was bestowed upon her, Aishwarya proceeded to cut a giant chocolate cake celebrating the 39th year of a her life.

Not paparazzi shy anymore, Aishwarya openly brought out the cute little baby girl – Aaradhya to celebrate her birthday. She was also accompanied by her husband Abhishek Bachchan, father in law Amitabh Bachchan, and mother Vrinda Rai.

Besides her family, actress Nandita Das, Parmeshwar Godrej and filmmaker Pritish Nandy were also present, among others.

For the occasion Aishwarya stuck to her favorite designer’s Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla’s pink heavily embellished anarkali.

Clearly exalted by receiving his honour, the actress said, “I want to thank the French government for honouring me with this award. It is truly overwhelming.”

Amitabh Bachchan what received the honour in 2007.

In the past, noted celebrities like Shah Rukh Khan and Nandita Das have also received the honour.