Kabir Bedi Interview: On Parveen Babi, Marriage & Loss on Filmfare’s New Show

Few actors from India have navigated the global stage with the ease and elegance of Kabir Bedi. From Sandokan in Italy to the 1983 James Bond film, Octopussy, in the West and powerful performances in Bollywood classics like Khoon Bhari Maang and Taj Mahal: An Eternal Love Story, his screen presence has transcended borders and decades, making him one of Indian cinema’s most enduring icons. In the latest episode of In The Ring with Filmfare, now streaming on Filmfare’s YouTube channel, Kabir Bedi joins Jitesh Pillai, Editor-in-Chief, Filmfare, for what is perhaps his boldest and most introspective conversation yet. In this emotionally charged exchange, he reflects on the peaks of international success, the heartbreaks that shaped him, and the memories etched across his personal and professional journey.

Kabir Bedi Opens Up on Parveen Babi, Love & Loss

In the course of the interview, Kabir Bedi speaks candidly about his complex relationship with Parveen Babi, her mental health struggles, and the moment jealousy sparked between her and Italian actress Gina Lollobrigida. He also opens up about the grief of losing his son Siddharth, the turbulence of an open marriage with Protima Bedi, and his evolving bond with daughter Pooja Bedi. Bedi further shares fascinating stories from his memoir, Stories I Must Tell, including working with legends like Rekha, Vinod Khanna, and Zeenat Aman, and his spiritual alignment with Osho’s philosophy. With refreshing honesty, the veteran actor revisits the many chapters of a life lived without filters during this no-holds-barred conversation.

Talking about Parveen Babi’s struggles, he revealed, “Parveen never accepted her mental illness. She was far away from India. Her career was at its peak at that time, and that is the reason she never accepted her problem. She was scared of what it might do to her stardom. During Amar Akbar Anthony, when Mahesh Bhatt was with her, he got to see it up close.”

Reflecting on his past relationships, he admitted, “There were times when I was indiscriminate in my choice of women. But if I am being equally honest, if I look at my significant relationships, none of them were one-night stands. I won’t pretend to have empowered anyone, but I’ve always believed in taking responsibility for the choices I made.”

On his spiritual outlook, he shared, “Vinod Khanna introduced me to Osho, and his philosophy really resonated with me. I’ve always disliked the idea that you have to wear white robes to follow his ideology. But it is not like that. I have immense respect for Osho.”

Recalling his experience working with legendary actresses, he said, “Each collaboration was unique. Rekha, Dimple Kapadia, Zeenat Aman, Parveen Babi – all powerful women in their own right. Khoon Bhari Maang with Rekha was especially memorable. I agreed to the film over a phone call with Rakesh Roshan when I was shooting for Magnum PI in Hawaii."

Speaking of his family, he expressed, “Protima and I were blessed with two kids, Pooja Bedi and Siddharth Bedi. With Pooja, we’ve had our share of ups and downs, some painful misunderstandings and miscommunications. But I believe she’s found her voice, her place, and I respect that.”

Watch the full episode of In The Ring With Filmfare ft. Kabir Bedi now, only on Filmfare's YouTube Channel!

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