The cute looking Diya Mirza with her fragile frame and a complexion of peachy cream is the perfect one for any beauty pageant. Born on December 9th 1981 to Deepa and Frank Handrich, Diya Mirza's connection with the ramp dates back to 2000 when she won the title of Miss Asia Pacific.

Born and brought up in Hyderabad, Diya lost her father, a German graphic designer at the age of nine. Her mother remarried Ahmed Mirza. The actress thus took on the surname Mirza. Interestingly Diya started working at the age of 16 while continuing with her college education through correspondence. The self made actress was not only associated with a multi media firm as its marketing executive, but was also into modelling.

Exposure to modelling and ramp paved the way for her introduction to the tinsel world. Year 2001 saw her breakthrough with the film Rehna Hai Tere Dil Mein. Diya who worked in films such as Dus, Fight Club, and Acid Factory is yet to register a commercial success. The actress had short roles to play in successful films such as Parineeta and Om Shanti Om.

Influenced by her mother who is a social worker, Diya Mirza is also part of many projects geared towards social service. She has been involved with cancer and AIDS patients. Other than being related to the rural development project, and India's Spastic Society she worked with the state Government (A.P.) to spread awareness about HIV and female infanticide. Her recent concern for the environment and open support to Medha Patkar hit the headlines.

The actress in collaboration with her friends also has a production house.