In the glamorous world of beauty pageants, competition often dominates. But, the Miss India 2000 pageant brought out a different side of the story between three famous contestants—Lara Dutta, Priyanka Chopra, and Dia Mirza. Despite competing against each other, their experience reflected camaraderie over rivalry, especially through Lara Dutta’s helpful and supportive attitude towards the younger contestants.
Priyanka’s Candid Revelation
During an interview on Simi Garewal’s popular talk show, Priyanka Chopra shared how Lara Dutta, already a seasoned contestant, stood out as more than just competition. Priyanka, who was only 17 at the time, along with 18-year-old Dia Mirza, were new to the pageant world. But Lara’s guidance gave them confidence, transforming the dynamic of their relationship.
Priyanka shared a memorable moment during the show when Lara took her to the bathroom and gave her tips on makeup that suited her skin. This act of kindness made such an impact that Priyanka and Dia affectionately started calling Lara “mom.” This playful nickname stuck, showcasing the bond they formed during a time when many expect tension and rivalry.
Lara’s Response to Priyanka’s Words
Lara Dutta later appeared on Simi Garewal’s show and was asked about Priyanka’s comments. Lara humbly explained that she believed in helping others, even during a competitive event like Miss India. She mentioned that she didn’t see it as a competition where helping someone else could jeopardize her chances.
For Lara, focusing on her goal of winning Miss India and Miss Universe was important, but being human was equally vital. She shared how it is essential to remain kind and supportive, even when you are chasing your own dreams.
The Bigger Picture: Why Lara Helped
Lara’s decision to help Priyanka and Dia stemmed from her philosophy of life. She believed that material achievements are temporary, and the real value comes from how we treat others. “You don’t take anything with you after death,” she said during the interview, emphasizing that the moments where we can help others define the quality of our lives.
She also highlighted how rare it is to get such opportunities to make a meaningful impact on someone else’s life. For her, failing to extend help would mean not truly living. This mindset of giving without expecting anything in return was the essence of Lara Dutta’s attitude during the pageant.
A Lesson in Humanity and Humility
This story of the Miss India 2000 competition shows that success doesn’t have to come at the expense of others. Lara’s actions reflected that even in competitive spaces, there is room for kindness and empathy. The support she offered to Priyanka and Dia became a life lesson not just for them but for anyone watching the pageant world unfold.
Lara’s belief in lifting others, instead of seeing them as obstacles, is a refreshing perspective in an industry often known for intense competition. It’s a testament to her character and a lesson in humanity, proving that compassion can coexist with ambition.
