MUMBAI: The French government has decided to specially invite Aishwarya Rai Bachchan at the Cannes Film Festival scheduled later this year. The festival is celebrating 100 years of Indian cinema.

The Hum Dil De Chuke actress was conferred a civilian award by the French government for her contribution to the arts on the occasion of her birthday last year.

Responding to a question, French Ambassador to India Francois Richier told reporters that the Bachchan bahu, as she is popularly known, is always respected in France because of her association with the Cannes film festival.

"She is very dear to our heart and we are very grateful to her," said Richier, who had conferred the civilian award to the actress on behalf of the French government.

Right from the time she has been endorsing a French cosmetic brand, Bachchan has for long been connected with the French.