Bollywood veteran Kabir Bedi, known for his remarkable career and eventful personal life, recently shared insights about his past relationship with iconic actress Parveen Babi. Their love story was one of the most talked-about in the 80s, but it ended abruptly, leaving the industry abuzz with speculations. Addressing these rumors, Kabir has now revealed that it was Parveen who chose to end the relationship, contrary to popular belief.
“Parveen Left Me, Not the Other Way Around”
In a recent interview, Kabir clarified that Parveen Babi left him due to her fear of being forced into treatment for her deteriorating mental health. “She was afraid that I would push her into seeking medical help. Parveen feared that if her condition became public knowledge, it would affect her career. The decision to part ways was hers,” Kabir explained.
He dismissed media claims that their breakup worsened Parveen’s mental health. “She was already battling mental health challenges before we separated. The media unfairly blamed me for her struggles,” he added.
Their Relationship and Struggles
Kabir and Parveen’s relationship began during a turbulent time in Kabir’s life. He had an open marriage with Protima Bedi, which eventually ended. Kabir met Parveen during this phase, and they quickly grew close. Parveen even accompanied him to Italy during the peak of his international fame with the hit television series Sandokan.
However, Kabir began noticing changes in Parveen while they were in London. “Her condition was deteriorating, and I advised her to seek treatment, but she wasn’t ready for it,” he said.
Media and Public Perception
The narrative surrounding their breakup often painted Kabir as the one who abandoned Parveen, but he clarified that this was far from the truth. “The media portrayed me as someone who left her, causing her mental health to spiral. But she had already been struggling. It hurt to see these misconceptions being spread,” Kabir shared.
Remembering Parveen Babi
Parveen Babi’s tragic death in 2005 deeply affected Kabir. “Her death was a huge loss. I was heartbroken when I learned about her passing,” he said. Kabir, along with Mahesh Bhatt and Danny Denzongpa, attended her funeral, marking the end of a life that left a lasting impact on Bollywood.
In his memoir, Stories I Must Tell: The Emotional Life of an Actor, Kabir also delves into his relationships and provides a candid perspective on Parveen’s mental health issues and her relationships with other prominent figures like Mahesh Bhatt and Danny Denzongpa.
A Love Story That Shaped Bollywood History
Kabir and Parveen’s relationship may not have lasted, but it remains one of Bollywood’s most iconic tales. Through his revelations, Kabir has shed light on the struggles Parveen faced, providing a deeper understanding of her life beyond the silver screen.
