When businessman and IPL founder Lalit Modi revealed in 2022 that he was dating actor and former Miss Universe Sushmita Sen, the news quickly became one of the biggest talking points on social media. Photos of the couple from their vacation went viral, and fans were eager to know more about their relationship. However, the romance appeared to end as quickly as it began, leading to widespread speculation about what went wrong. Now, Lalit Modi has finally spoken about the breakup and shared the reason behind their split.
During a recent conversation on the Humans of Bombay podcast, Lalit looked back on his relationship with Sushmita and spoke warmly about the bond they shared. He described her as a very important person in his life and said she helped him grow as an individual. According to him, Sushmita was someone who had a strong influence on him during that period and remains someone he respects deeply even today.
Explaining why the relationship could not continue, Lalit said that distance became the biggest challenge. He shared that Sushmita’s career and life were based in India, while he was living in London. Managing a relationship across different countries eventually became difficult for both of them. Despite the breakup, he said he has only fond memories of their time together and continues to consider her a dear friend.
Lalit also praised Sushmita for her achievements and personal journey. He spoke highly of the way she has raised her two daughters as a single mother and said he admires her strength and determination. He also expressed respect for her family and wished her happiness and success in the future.
Back in 2022, Lalit had publicly announced their relationship through social media posts. He shared pictures from their holiday and referred to Sushmita as his partner. The announcement sparked marriage rumours, which he later clarified by saying they were dating but not married. He also hinted that marriage could happen someday.
Just back in london after a whirling global tour #maldives # sardinia with the families – not to mention my #better looking partner @sushmitasen47 – a new beginning a new life finally. Over the moon. 🥰😘😍😍🥰💕💞💖💘💓. In love does not mean marriage YET. BUT ONE THAT For sure pic.twitter.com/WL8Hab3P6V
— Lalit Kumar Modi (@LalitKModi) July 14, 2022
As time passed, fans noticed that references to Sushmita gradually disappeared from Lalit’s social media accounts, fueling speculation about a breakup. In 2025, he confirmed that he had moved on when he introduced his new partner, Rima Bouri, on Instagram. Sharing a heartfelt post, he revealed that their friendship of 25 years had blossomed into love.
Before his relationship with Sushmita, Lalit Modi was married to Minal Modi. The couple shared a long marriage until Minal’s passing in 2018 after her battle with cancer.