After several social media users alleged that former Miss Universe Sushmita Sen is dating businessman Lalit Modi for his money, her brother Rajeev Sen spoke in her defence. During an interview, he called his sister a "self-made woman who knows her priorities".
Rajeev further said Sushmita is a responsible mother who happens to be a role model for many Indians. When the news of Sushmita dating Modi broke, Rajeev told ETimes that he was not aware of the relationship. He said he was "pleasantly surprised" to see their photos together.
The 46-year-old actress had shut down the trolls by sharing an Instagram post titled "I dig deeper than gold". She called out people whom she never met sharing opinions about her character and life. The actress further declared that she has always famously preferred diamonds and still buys them herself. With a serene picture of her standing at the edge of an infinity pool, she concluded the post by saying "I am the Sun, perfectly centred in my being and my conscience."
When the founder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) announced on social media of his relationship with Sen, crass jokes about his appearance also began. Sushmita was even criticised by Bangladeshi author-activist Taslima Nasrin who assumed that the actress is spending time with "a very unattractive person" because he is rich.
Rajeev Sen is the latest of the many who have come to Sushmitha's defence and reminded the trolls of her success in career and bold life decisions. After winning the pageant in 1994, she has starred in several A-list movies and recently delivered a successful show 'Aarya' on Disney+ Hotstar. She is also mother to two adopted daughters.
When asked about Sushmitha supporting his wife Charu after their separation, Rajeev disputed the claim and suggested that the media should ask his sister about her actions.
Rajeev Sen and Charu Asopa got married in 2019 and have a daughter Ziana who now lives with her mother. The couple parted ways after three years of marriage and Charu alleged Rajeev of toxic and abusive behaviour.
Sushmitha follows Charu on Instagram and does not follow Rajeev. When asked about this, he said his sister never followed him on Instagram. He told ETimes: "The only place she is following me is on Twitter." He added that his sister is smart enough to know where we stand.