“Sisterhood Over Catfights”: Lara Dutta Reflects on Miss India 2000 Bond With Priyanka Chopra and Dia Mirza
Actor Lara Dutta has opened up about her enduring friendship with fellow beauty pageant winners Priyanka Chopra and Dia Mirza, recalling their journey from the historic Femina Miss India 2000 pageant to long-lasting camaraderie in the entertainment industry.
Lara, who was crowned Miss India Universe in 2000, highlighted how the same pageant also introduced India to two other future stars—Priyanka Chopra as Miss India World and Dia Mirza as Miss India Asia Pacific. Despite being competitors at the time, the three went on to build a bond that has lasted over two decades.
A bond beyond competition
In a recent conversation, Lara reflected on how the trio supported each other even during the competitive environment of pageantry. She recalled instances such as helping with makeup and guiding younger contestants, including Dia Mirza, describing it as a natural extension of their shared experience rather than rivalry.
She emphasized that while the industry is often associated with competition and “catfights,” her experience with Priyanka and Dia was rooted in mutual respect and friendship.
“I come from a family of faujis”
Lara attributed her grounded personality to her upbringing, saying her family background shaped her outlook on fame and success. She shared that she comes from a family of armed forces personnel, which instilled discipline and humility in her.
She explained that her family remained detached from glamour and fame, rarely attending industry events, which helped her stay unaffected by external validation such as wealth, status, or stardom.
Views on fame and life
The actor also spoke about the transient nature of fame, noting that even the biggest stars eventually fade from public memory over generations. She stressed that success should not define one’s identity or values.
Lara added that her focus has always been on personal growth and leaving a positive impact, rather than being consumed by professional achievements alone.
Friendship that continues today
Over the years, Lara Dutta, Priyanka Chopra, and Dia Mirza have continued to share a warm bond, often expressing mutual admiration on social media. In 2021, Priyanka shared a photo from a London meetup with Lara and her daughter, celebrating over two decades of friendship.
Lara reshared the moment, calling it a “next generation friendship,” reinforcing the long-standing connection between the three women who began their journey together on the Miss India stage.
