Distributors of Gurinder Chaddha's forthcoming film "Mistress Of Spices", which releases April 21, are counting on Aishwarya Rai's popularity to fetch a satisfactory response in the Indian market.

They insist Indian audiences will be able to connect with the film instantly

. "It is a true crossover film which will strike a chord with Indian audiences. We had earlier released the Ash starrer 'Raincoat' and we are aware of the fact that she has a great fan following both in the big and smaller metros," said Kamal Gyanchandani, vice president of PVR Pictures.

The film will be released all over the country with 70 odd prints and the focus will be on multiplex audiences in the metros.