The signs, though, have been visible for a while now -- partly in the increasingly frenzied media speculation, partly in the increasing public appearances by the two, looking very much the content couple.

Think back to February 5 last year, when Abhishek walked in for his birthday party with Ash's hand in his. Shortly thereafter, Jaya Bachchan was seen introducing Ash to all her friends. The cake was cut, and after feeding his parents, it was to Ash that he turned, cake in hand.

The two danced up a storm that evening, with Abhishek refusing to let Ash leave the floor.