When Lara Dutta taught makeup to Priyanka Chopra while competing with her at Miss India pageant; ‘You don’t forget you are a human’

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When Lara Dutta taught makeup to Priyanka Chopra while competing with her at Miss India pageant; 'You don't forget you are a human'

As an ardent fan of Lara Dutta and the stories behind the glamorous world of beauty pageants, I am utterly captivated by this heartwarming tale of camaraderie and selflessness. Here we have two extraordinary women, who could have easily been engulfed in the fierce competition that such events breed, yet they chose to uplift each other instead.

As a devoted admirer, let me share some intriguing insights about the illustrious Lara Dutta. She gained renown for her captivating performances in films such as Andaaz, Partner, Housefull, and many others, but perhaps her most significant achievement was being crowned Miss Universe in 2000. Interestingly enough, she contended with Priyanka Chopra in the Femina Miss India beauty pageant that year, and it was Priyanka who ultimately claimed the title of Miss World for 2000. What might surprise you is that Lara herself served as a mentor to her competitor Priyanka, teaching her makeup techniques during the 2000 Femina Miss India Contest.

Reflecting upon my own journey through the Miss Universe pageant, I recall that during my interview with Simi Garewal, I was asked about my lack of competitiveness in the competition. However, I believe that my approach to the pageant was not one of rivalry or cutthroat ambition, but rather a focus on showcasing my unique qualities and embodying the spirit of grace, poise, and humility that I had cultivated throughout my life experiences.

Simi Garewal, the show’s presenter, reflected on it being “unexpected” and “kind” for Lara to instruct makeup to PeeCee. To this, the actress from Bell Bottom responded with a smile, indicating that her primary goal was to secure the titles. Yet, she opted for empathy while maintaining a positive approach towards the competition.

Lara stated, “You maintain your concentration when you intend to, as for me, achieving Miss India and Miss Universe were my goals.”

“I’m so engrossed in it all, yet I never lose sight of my humanity. Wins and losses, they may seem significant now, but when the curtain falls on me, they’ll fade into insignificance.”

Lara went on to say that she took hold of a rare chance to influence someone positively, moments like these being particularly meaningful to her. She emphasized that acting without helping others isn’t living at all, and she has no interest in such a life. The former Miss Universe made this statement.

While on Simi Garewal’s show, Priyanka Chopra reminisced about calling Lara Dutta “mom”, as she admired The Bluff actress. She recollected learning makeup techniques from Lara during the pageant, and shared that her Andaaz co-star took her to the bathroom to demonstrate the appropriate makeup for her skin.

In a whirlwind of dreams come true, I found myself standing among three extraordinary women – Lara Dutta, Priyanka Chopra, and Dia Mirza – all of us Indian beauties vying for the crown in various beauty pageants. Lara took home the Femina Miss India Universe title and represented our nation at Miss Universe 2000 in Cyprus. I still remember the excitement that coursed through my veins when she was crowned!

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2024-08-21 01:22