Parveen Babi…. one of the most glamourous actress on the silver screen. With Zeenat Aman she brought in the western outfits & hair styles unknown to the Hindi cinegoer. They could carry their clothes with such grace that the minis, midis appeared to be the casual wear. When it wasn’t!
From ‘Majboor’ to ‘Deevar’ she developed the art of emoting & makeup. Her large eyes became more expressive & as a regular star cast opposite Amitabh she was then one of the highest paid stars of her time.
Today going through the article by Shubhra Gupta, I remembered Parveen Babi in ‘Amar,Akbar,Anthony’ & how she is followed by Amitabh. The memorable song ‘Anhoni ko honi karde…’ in Jeevan’s den is because Babi is getting married to Viktor & all are helping Amitabh to prevent it.
From ‘Namak Halaal’ to ‘Kaalia’ she had the most hummable numbers. Her sparkling, stellar roles did no good in her private life,which remained disconnected from reality. Did she carry her role home & thought the hero is really into her? Were her fears justified that people are trying to kill her??
Her failed relationships took her toll. Her insecurities mounted & she became more & more moody. “Arth” is said to be based on her failed relationship with Mahesh Bhatt. He left his family for her but went back when he could not handle her whims.
Her mental state deteriorated till her death in 2005. With no family, few friends & no support she was all alone in the end. An actress full of life,laughter & who left us with lifelong memories to succumb to an illness incurable ! Her biography is set to be released soon. We may look forward to some answers there.
Asian Entertainment 