Lalit Modi Defends Sushmita Sen, Jokes He Was the ‘Kept Boyfriend'
Speaking about the criticism that followed their public appearance together in 2022, Modi said Sen was a successful, self-made woman who never allowed him to pay for anything
Former IPL (Indian Premier League) chairman Lalit Modi has opened up about his relationship with Bollywood actor Sushmita Sen, years after their relationship made headlines, describing himself as her “kept boyfriend” and jokingly calling himself the “diamond digger.” Speaking about the criticism that followed their public appearance together in 2022, Modi said Sen was a successful, self-made woman who never allowed him to pay for anything.
According to Modi, the former Miss Universe possessed immense wealth of her own and had earned everything through her hard work. He remarked that if anyone deserved to be called a “digger” in the relationship, it was him rather than Sen, who was subjected to online trolling and accusations of being a “gold digger” after their relationship became public.
Modi also recalled the moment he publicly revealed their relationship, saying the decision sparked widespread discussion across social media. Despite the scrutiny, he described the relationship as “very special” and said Sen played an important role in his life, helping him grow personally and professionally.
The businessman added that he continues to cherish the memories they shared and still considers Sen a dear friend, praising her as a beautiful, successful and self-made woman. He credits her for personal growth and dismisses past ‘gold digger’ allegations.
This article is written by Divya Sharma, a student of Kristu Jayanti Deemed to be University, interning with Deccan Chronicle.
