Happy Birthday Riya Sen: Lesser-known facts of actor who sparked controversies

Riya Sen is an actor who comes not only from a filmy family but also a royal family too. She started off her acting career as a child artist in the year 1991. Riya is the daughter of Dev Varma and Moon Moon Sen. She is also the younger sister of actor Raima Sen.

Riya Sen's father Dev Varma is the son of Ila Devi, the Princess of Cooch Behar. He is also the nephew of Maharani Gayatri Devi of Jaipur.

Riya Sen's grandmother is the legendary Suchitra Sen. She is the daughter of veteran actor Moon Moon Sen and the younger sister of Raima Sen, who is also a popular actor. 

Riya Sen made her acting debut back in 1991 as a child artist in the film Vishkanya. She made her debut as a leading actor with the film Style released in the year 2000. 

Riya Sen has been linked up with cricketer Sreesanth, Ashmit Patel, John Abraham, Salman Rushdie among many others.

Back in 2005, a video was leaked of Ashmit Patel and Riya Sen of them getting intimate. The MMS leak instantly became a talk of the town. When quizzed about it, Riya had said, "I thought people were waiting to pull me down. Surprisingly, the support I got from all quarters was amazing. I am stepping out with more confidence and respect than ever before. I feel like it's my second beginning, my second life. I can't recall who told me about it, but my first reaction was how do I handle the situation.' Another important thought that struck me was about facing my parents."

She added, "But, I am lucky to have such wonderful parents. The topic hasn't been broached at home, at all. My parents have helped me overcome this disturbing phase. Anyone in my place would have had a nervous breakdown. It was a phase, so dreadful that I just want to forget it. Everybody around me says it's him. But I don't want to believe it. I trust people more than ever today. How can I not? I was overwhelmed by everybody's love and support. I've started to value and respect people more than ever. My belief in God has grown."

Riya Sen tied the knot with beau Shivam Tewari in the year 2017. Talking about the wedding which took place in Pune, she has said, "According to me, it's a leap of fate. Marriage doesn't guarantee anything, it doesn't come with perfect settings. Marriage largely entails love, respect, honesty, understanding and trust between two people, which only you can create for yourself to make it last. I think cheating is by choice not by accident. I think real men/ women stay faithful because they love who they've chosen. There's something wrong with your character if opportunity dictates over your loyalty."

[All photos via Instagram (@riyasendv)]