Happy Birthday Dia Mirza: Lesser-known facts about her you probably didn't know

Dia Mirza is a vision of poise and grace. She made her debut in Bollywood in 2001 with 'Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein' and has been seen in many memorable roles since, including Parineeta (2005), and Thappad (2020). A trailblazer, Dia has always stood out for being different, in a cut throat industry. There is much more to her than her ethereal beauty, and she's the example that we can actually follow. From her original profession before stardom to causes close to her heart, here are some lesser-known facts about the charming star.

1. Before becoming a star, Dia Mirza was a marketing executive
Dia worked as a marketing executive for a media studio. However, life had different plans for her. In 2000, she participated in a beauty contest and went on to become Miss Asia Pacific.

2. Cancer awareness to HIV, Dia Mirza works for several causes
Dia Mirza has several causes which are close to her heart. Apart from supporting the Cancer Patients Aid Foundation, the Spastics Society of India, PETA, United Nations’ CRY and other organizations, she also adopts two cancer patients every year.

3. Dia Mirza is been vocal about environmental issues
Dia Mirza has been very vocal about environmental issues and has worked towards making the world a greener place. She along with Aamir Khan raised their voice against the construction of the Sardar Sarovar Project in Gujarat in 2006, which led to protests against her. She is also the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) National Goodwill Ambassador.

4. Half Bengali & half German, Dia Mirza is truly a global citizen
Dia Mirza is half Bengali and half German by parentage. Dia uses her step-father's surname Mirza and recently added her father, Frank Handrich's surname to her name. Her father was a German designer from Munich, her mother Deepa is an interior designer, landscaper and works as a volunteer to help alcoholics and addicts.

5. Dia Mirza starts her day with a unique wellness practise
Dia in an interview revealed that she has been starting off her days with a unique wellness practice called 'earthing'. Dia begins her day in her garden, spending at least ten minutes walking barefoot on soil and grass, in order to ground oneself, connect with nature, and feel centred.