Lalit Modi Claims He Was Sushmita Sen's 'Kept Boyfriend,' Calls Himself 'Diamond Digger'

Former

IPL chairman Lalit Modi has opened up about his past relationship with actress and former Miss Universe Sushmita Sen, sharing insights about how their dynamic worked. Modi addressed the widespread 'gold digger' allegations that were directed at Sushmita after he publicly announced their relationship in 2022, insisting that the narrative was completely unfair. Modi revealed that contrary to public perception, it was Sushmita who often paid for their outings and expenses. Defending the actress, he described her as an independent, self-made woman who built her own success and wealth over the years.

Lalit Modi was a 'diamond digger' for Sushmita Sen

"Sushmita is a beautiful, successful and self-made woman. She has more diamonds than almost anyone I know, and she earned everything herself," Modi said during a recent conversation with Humans of Bombay. He further recalled that during their time together, there was never an occasion where he had to reach for his wallet. "I was like a kept boyfriend," he remarked, adding humorously "If anything, Lalit was the diamond digger." He said that Sushmita is truly a 'diamond.'

The businessman also reflected fondly on their relationship, describing Sushmita as one of the most influential people in his life during that period. In his words, Sushmita was 'very special' to him. According to Modi, their bond was meaningful and helped shape him in several ways. "She helped me grow into many of the things I am today and was an extremely important part of my life at that time. It was a very special relationship," he shared.Although the relationship eventually came to an end, reportedly due to the challenges posed by distance, Modi said he still holds deep respect and affection for the actress. He praised her journey as a single mother and expressed admiration for the way she has raised her daughters, Renee and Alisah. "I have the fondest memories of her and she's still a very dear friend" he said.

Lalit Modi on his viral post revealing relationship with Sushmita Sen

Modi also shed light on the viral social media post that first revealed their relationship to the world. The post, which sparked intense media attention and social media debate, was not part of any calculated plan, he claimed.Recalling the moment, Modi said he posted the pictures while sitting right next to Sushmita on a flight.

"She didn't think I would actually post it. We were arguing about something on the plane and she said, 'You're not going to post this.'" He said he laughed and pressed the post button. Despite the frenzy, he said neither he nor Sushmita felt there was anything wrong with making their relationship public and the actress never asked him to delete the post.In July 2022, Modi had shared photos from their vacation, referring to Sushmita as his 'better half' and calling it a 'new beginning.' He later clarified that they were dating and not married. While the relationship eventually ended, Sushmita later described it as 'just another phase' during an interview in 2023 with Mid-Day.