Lalit Modi makes SHOCKING claims: “Sushmita paid, I was the KEPT boyfriend”

When Lalit Modi and Sushmita Sen's relationship became public in 2022, it instantly turned into one of the most talked-about celebrity stories on social media. While the photographs from their luxury vacation grabbed attention, the conversation soon shifted to criticism, with many online users unfairly branding Sushmita a “gold digger.” Nearly four years later, Lalit Modi has addressed the controversy and offered his side of the story.

Lalit Modi Revisits the Viral Relationship Debate

Speaking in a recent interview with Humans of Bombay, the businessman reflected on the backlash that followed his announcement of their relationship. Modi said much of the public reaction was based on assumptions rather than facts. According to him, people misunderstood both the nature of their bond and Sushmita’s financial standing.

He stressed that the former Miss Universe is an accomplished and self-made woman who built her success independently long before she met him. Modi described her as someone who takes pride in earning her own way and never relies on others for financial support.

“I Was the Kept Boyfriend,” Says Modi

One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation was Modi’s claim that Sushmita often picked up the bill whenever they went out together. Rejecting the narrative that she was interested in his wealth, he said there was never an occasion when he had to pay for her expenses.

In fact, Modi jokingly remarked that he felt more like the “kept boyfriend” in the relationship. Praising Sushmita's success, he spoke about her business ventures and personal achievements, adding that she had earned everything through her own hard work.

He further described her as a strong and independent woman who would never accept anything she had not earned herself.

Why He Calls Himself the “Diamond Digger”

Addressing the “gold digger” label directly, Modi turned the accusation on its head. He said if anyone gained from the relationship, it was him. Referring to Sushmita as a “diamond,” he joked that he was actually the “diamond digger.”

The businessman also stated that their relationship was never about money or status. According to him, Sushmita had the means, success and freedom to live life entirely on her own terms.

Modi first revealed their relationship in July 2022 by sharing pictures from a vacation together. The announcement sparked widespread speculation, especially after he referred to Sushmita as his “better half,” prompting him to later clarify that the two were dating and not married. Years later, he remains firm in defending her against the criticism that followed, insisting the public got the story completely wrong.