Happy Birthday Sushmita Sen: From Pageant queen to role model, a look at India’s first Miss Universe’s journey
Sushmita Sen’s journey is one of resilience, courage, and reinvention. From battling health challenges to becoming India’s first Miss Universe and a fearless single mother, take a look at her inspiring journey.
Gayatri Rani
November 19, 2025 / 16:26 IST
1/9
Struggling to fit conventional beauty standards Many would not have predicted the difficulties Sushmita Sen faced at the start of her journey. She struggled to meet traditional beauty standards as a teenager and was criticised for her appearance. Even while preparing for Miss Universe, she felt uncomfortable due to her poor command of the English language.
2/9
Miss Universe Triumph Sushmita Sen became the first Indian woman to win the Miss Universe title in 1994 at just 18 years old. Despite her young age, she impressed the world with her confidence, intelligence, and grace. This victory opened doors for her in Bollywood, yet she chose to carefully select roles that resonated with her personality and ideals, rather than simply chasing fame.
3/9
Independent motherhood Sushmita Sen embraced single motherhood long before it became common in India. She adopted her first daughter, Renee, in 2000, and later adopted her second, Alisah, in 2010, navigating a legal battle as an unmarried woman. She has often spoken about how motherhood transformed her perspective, making her stronger and more compassionate.
4/9
Bollywood Journey While many remember her for her glamorous image, Sushmita has always prioritised roles with substance. She debuted in Dastak and delivered memorable performances in films like Main Hoon Na and Aankhen. She took an eight-year hiatus, during which she was considered “jobless” by the industry.
Battling Addison’s disease Life threw Sushmita a major health challenge when she was diagnosed with Addison’s disease, a rare endocrine disorder affecting adrenal function. Despite the seriousness, she faced it with courage, maintaining her professional and personal commitments.
6/9
Refused anaesthesia during heart surgery In recent years, Sushmita faced a serious health scare that required heart surgery, and she bravely chose to undergo part of the procedure without anaesthesia. Even the doctors were left shocked by her decision. She has been open about the experience, emphasising the importance of early detection and heart health awareness.
7/9
Speaking out against sexual assault Sushmita Sen has courageously spoken about being molested while shooting a bold and intimate scene. She revealed that the co-actor couldn’t control himself, leaving her traumatised and running off the set in tears. By sharing her experience, she has encouraged women to speak up, demand respect, and assert boundaries in the film industry, highlighting her role as a strong advocate for consent and safety.
8/9
Fitness and yoga enthusiast A fitness icon, Sushmita Sen, is known for her rigorous workout routines and dedication to yoga. Even in her 40s and 50s, she maintains enviable physical and mental health. She often shares glimpses of her fitness regime on social media, motivating fans to lead healthy, active lifestyles and proving that age is no barrier to physical vitality.
Philanthropy and mentorship Sushmita actively supports charitable causes, including women’s empowerment and child welfare. She also mentors young actors, guiding them with her industry experience. Through her philanthropic work, she combines influence with responsibility, using her platform to inspire positive change, proving that her impact extends far beyond her cinematic achievements.
Gayatri Rani is a Senior-Sub Editor with over three years of experience in delivering Hollywood and Bollywood news.
