In 2022, actress Sushmita Sen made headlines after businessman and former IPL chief Lalit Modi publicly revealed that they were reportedly in a relationship. The pictures quickly went viral on social media, sparking widespread discussion and leading to criticism from some online users who unfairly labelled the actress a "gold digger." As the controversy gradually faded, both moved on with their lives. Now, nearly four years later, Lalit Modi has opened up about his relationship with Sushmita, the reasons behind their breakup, and the criticism they faced.Speaking to Humans of Bombay, Lalit looked back on his time with Sushmita with affection and respect. He described the former Miss Universe as a successful, independent, and self-made woman who had built her own life and career through hard work.Lalit Modi defends Sushmita against 'gold digger' allegationsOne of the biggest controversies surrounding their relationship was the social media backlash directed at Sushmita. Many online users questioned her intentions and accused her of dating Lalit for financial reasons.However, Lalit firmly rejected those claims. He said the narrative was completely false and insisted that Sushmita was financially secure long before they met. According to him, she had earned her wealth independently and never depended on anyone else.He even joked that if anyone deserved to be called a "digger," it was him rather than Sushmita. Lalit claimed that during their time together, she often paid for outings and expenses herself. He said she was someone who preferred handling things on her own and rarely accepted financial help from others.Praising her achievements, he noted that Sushmita had built an impressive life for herself and could have chosen any partner she wanted. In his view, their relationship was never about money.Why Lalit Modi and Sushmita Sen parted waysDuring the interview, Lalit revealed that distance eventually became the biggest challenge in their relationship.He explained, "Sushmita was very special to me. She helped me grow into many of the things I am today and was an extremely important part of my life at that time. It was a very special relationship, but the distances got too much. Her career was in India, my life was in London. I have the fondest memories of her, and she’s still a very dear friend. I wish her nothing but the best. She’s an amazing woman, and what she has done as a single mother to her daughters, Renee and Alisah, is remarkable. I just wish her all the very best."The businessman also made it clear that there was no bitterness between them. According to him, they remain on good terms, and he continues to hold her in high regard.'A beautiful chapter of my life'Lalit also praised Sushmita's journey as a single mother. He spoke warmly about the way she has raised her daughters, Renee and Alisah, and said her dedication to them is admirable.He further stated that he has no regrets about the relationship. Looking back, he considers it a beautiful chapter of his life and believes every experience contributes to personal growth.Meanwhile, Sushmita had earlier addressed the speculation shortly after the relationship became public in 2022. In a social media post, she clarified that she was neither married nor engaged and said she was simply surrounded by love and happiness. Stating that this 'none of their business', she also urged people to move on from the rumours and focus on their own lives."“NOT MARRIED…NO RINGS…Unconditionally surrounded by love!!” the former Miss Universe wrote, “Enough clarification given…now back to life & work!! Thank you for sharing in my happiness always…and for those who don’t…it’s #NOYB Anyway!!!” she added. “I love you guys!!!"Years later, for Lalit , the romance with Sushmita Sen is a memory he looks back on fondly, without regret, and with gratitude for the time they shared together.