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Mahesh Bhatt Reflects on His Relationship with Parveen Babi

Exploring a Love Story Marked by Turbulence and Mental Health Struggles

Renowned filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt recently shed light on his intense yet tumultuous romance with Parveen Babi, a celebrated actress who captivated audiences in the 1970s and 1980s. Babi, who sadly passed away in 2005 at the age of 50, first came into Bhatt’s orbit when she was cast in his film “Ab Meri Baari.” However, a significant mental health crisis forced Bhatt to find a replacement for her role, resulting in Rekha stepping in. Unfortunately, due to financial difficulties, the film never progressed beyond its initial phases.

In an interview with Radio Nasha Official, Bhatt opened up about this significant period in his life. He explained that the relationship sparked a desire not only to be together but also to collaborate on a film project that would help them spend more time with one another. “I was in a relationship with her and when you are with someone you want to spend time with them,” he recalled. He detailed the cast, which included notable names such as Dev Anand and Rishi Kapoor, but the production was halted due to Parveen’s mental health issues.

The love affair between Bhatt and Babi reportedly began in 1977, shortly after Babi’s separation from fellow actor Kabir Bedi. Struggling emotionally after her breakup, Parveen turned to Bhatt for support, and their relationship flourished. This led Bhatt to make significant personal sacrifices, including leaving his then-wife, Lorraine Bright, and their daughter Pooja Bhatt, to pursue a life with the glamorous star. However, the relationship was fraught with difficulties, as Babi’s mental health challenges began to take a toll.

Parveen Babi, regarded as an iconic figure in Indian cinema, fought against paranoid schizophrenia, which resulted in deep-seated delusions and fears. She became convinced that influential figures were conspiring against her, leading her to withdraw from the public eye and retreat into solitude. Despite her fame and success, her later years were marked by isolation as she battled her mental health issues.

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