Lara Dutta was often been pitted against her contemporary Priyanka Chopra ever since they made their Bollywood debuts.

Lara Dutta scripted history in the year 2000 as she was crowned the second Indian Miss Universe after Sushmita Sen. However, in the same year Priyanka Chopra also won Miss World 2000 contest. Later, when the duo made their acting debuts with Akshay Kumar-starrer Andaaz, rumour mills started reporting about their rivalry. Despite the gossip, Lara and Priyanka always denied the same. Time and again, they proved that they are best friends. As Lara turns 46 on April 16, a glimpse at five times she showcased her close bond with her Andaaz co-star.

Lara Dutta and Priyanka Chopra worked together in Akshay Kumar starrer Andaaz.

Lara Dutta and Priyanka Chopra worked together in Akshay Kumar starrer Andaaz.

Lara will always have Priyanka’s back

Revisiting Lara Dutta's thoughts on breaking into Bollywood and competing with Priyanka Chopra | Hindi Movie News - Times of India

Lara penned a heartfelt note on Instagram as her debut movie Andaaz clocked 20 years on May 2023. She posted her pictures with Priyanka and Akshay. The actor captioned her post as, “And just like that…….. it’s been 20 years!!! What an incredible, exhilarating journey!!! Always grateful! (folded hands emoji) First of all to the audience and fans! (emoji) To @suneeldarshan for offering me my first film and being the wonderful, cultured, caring person he is. My dearest Raj ji for being the most patient teacher My forever most handsome, most fun , always there for me, @akshaykumar For just being who he is!!! @priyankachopra we’ll always have each others backs! (smiling and heart emojis) Ever grateful for what the Indian film industry has given me! (two folded hands and heart emoji)”