Aditi Govitrikar, who made history as the first Indian woman to clinch the Mrs World title in 2001, has recently spoken out about the unequal recognition she received despite her groundbreaking achievement on the global stage. In a candid interview, the multifaceted personality—known for her work as a model, actor, physician, and psychologist—compared her experience with that of Lara Dutta and Priyanka Chopra, who were crowned Miss Universe 2000 and Miss World 2000, respectively.
A Stark Contrast in Rewards
Recalling the moment with honesty, Aditi revealed that while Lara and Priyanka walked away with luxurious rewards, her own recognition was far more modest. "I became Mrs World the same year that Lara and Priyanka also became winners. We had a party, the unfortunate party, actually. The funny part was that I was not at the same publication house as they were, so they were given a flat, a car, and all, and I was given a bouquet," she told Hauterrfly.
A Light-Hearted Yet Telling Anecdote
Sharing a humorous yet revealing anecdote from the celebration, Aditi recounted how Lara Dutta jokingly highlighted the disparity in their rewards. "Lara was standing next to me. She was saying, 'Look, we have a car, a house, and you have a husband.' So I said, 'That's brilliant.' I said, 'That's a good thing.'" Despite the material differences, Aditi handled the situation with grace and humor, choosing to focus on the broader significance rather than the immediate contrast.
Breaking Barriers Together
In the same interview, Aditi reflected on the larger impact of that year for Indian women on international pageant platforms. She emphasized that sharing the spotlight with Lara and Priyanka felt symbolic and empowering. "It was inspiring to see so many Indian women achieving recognition at the same time. It felt like we were breaking barriers together," she said. Aditi added that this moment marked a significant milestone, as Indian women dominated global beauty stages simultaneously, showcasing their talent and resilience to the world.
A Glimpse into Aditi Govitrikar's Personal Journey
Aditi Govitrikar's personal life has been marked by both triumphs and challenges. She was married to her college senior, Muffazal Lakdawala, after dating for six years, tying the knot in 1998 despite opposition from both families. Following her marriage, Aditi converted to Islam and changed her name to Sarah Lakdawala. The couple welcomed their daughter Kiara in 1999 and son Zhiaan in 2007. However, their marriage ended in 2008, with Aditi retaining custody of both children, navigating the complexities of life with strength and determination.
This revelation sheds light on the often-overlooked aspects of pageant victories, highlighting not just the glamour but also the personal stories and societal barriers faced by winners. Aditi's reflections serve as a reminder of the progress made by Indian women in global arenas, while also acknowledging the disparities that can exist behind the scenes.
