Recently, renowned filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt revealed poignant details about his past film project, “Ab Meri Baari,” which initially starred the legendary Parveen Babi. However, due to Parveen Babi’s debilitating mental health issues, Bhatt was compelled to replace her with another Bollywood icon, Rekha. Unfortunately, despite the replacement, the film never saw the light of day, primarily due to financial constraints.
Mahesh Bhatt, an influential figure in Indian cinema, was in a romantic relationship with Parveen Babi for nearly three years. Parveen Babi, celebrated as one of the most glamorous and talented actresses of Bollywood during the ’70s and ’80s, passed away tragically in 2005 at the age of 50.
In a candid conversation with Radio Nasha Official, Bhatt shed light on his deeply personal and professional journey with Parveen Babi and the impact of her mental health on their film project. “I was in a relationship with her and naturally wanted to spend as much time as possible with her. This desire also translated into my work, so I decided to make ‘Ab Meri Baari’ with her. The film was supposed to feature stars like Dev Anand, Rishi Kapoor, and Tina Ambani alongside Parveen Babi,” Bhatt elaborated.
He continued by reflecting on the turn of events that caused the film to come to a halt. “During the shooting, Parveen had a severe mental health episode. She suddenly became very ill, leading to the suspension of the film. Despite our best efforts to continue, her condition made it impossible for her to return. We decided to cast Rekha Ji and reshoot many scenes, but eventually, financial issues prevented us from completing the project.”
Mahesh Bhatt and Parveen Babi’s relationship had always been the subject of intense media scrutiny. Their romance reportedly began in 1977 after Parveen ended her relationship with actor Kabir Bedi. Grieving and seeking solace, Parveen found comfort in Bhatt, which eventually blossomed into a significant relationship. Bhatt took the drastic step of leaving his wife, Lorraine Bright (also known as Kiran Bhatt), and their daughter Pooja Bhatt to be with Parveen.
. However, the challenges posed by Parveen’s mental health issues created an insurmountable obstacle for their relationship, leading to their eventual separation.
Mahesh Bhatt has often channeled real-life experiences into his cinematic creations, portraying both his successes and struggles. He continues to be a prominent voice in addressing mental health issues, emphasizing the need for understanding and support for those suffering.
Shifting gears slightly, Bhatt also shared his reflections on his daughter Alia Bhatt’s acting journey. In an interview with India Today, the filmmaker praised Alia’s performance in “Udta Punjab,” indicating his unique way of expressing his admiration. “I must say that I was profoundly moved by ‘Udta Punjab.’ Watching Alia, a girl who grew up in our ordinary household in Juhu, master the accent of an Adivasi from Chhattisgarh was extraordinary. Her dedication and transformation left me astonished,” Bhatt remarked.
Further elaborating on Alia’s evolution as an actress, Bhatt noted, “Alia was just a mannequin in her debut film, ‘Student of the Year.’ But with ‘Udta Punjab,’ she demonstrated an incredible raw power, tapping into an emotionally vulnerable space and baring her heart. This transformation from a mannequin to a powerhouse performer is evident when you see films like ‘Highway’ and ‘Udta Punjab.’ As a parent and a filmmaker, witnessing this growth has been immensely fulfilling.”
Bhatt’s reflections on his professional and personal life underscore his deep connection to the people he worked with and loved, showcasing the centrality of human relationships in his cinematic and personal narratives. His revelations about the halted film “Ab Meri Baari” and the switch from Parveen Babi to Rekha highlight not only the trying circumstances but also Bhatt’s determination to navigate through adversity.
Mahesh Bhatt remains a pivotal figure in the film industry, known for his candor and willingness to address difficult topics. His openness about Parveen Babi’s mental health issues and his experiences offer a profound message about the significance of empathy and understanding in the face of human struggles.
The narrative of “Ab Meri Baari,” despite its incomplete status, is a testament to Bhatt’s enduring spirit and commitment, both to his craft and the people who have touched his life. The untold stories behind such films serve as enduring lessons in resilience and the power of human connections, reflective of Bhatt’s own journey.
