By Jagmohan Singh Barhok

Often referred to as a Sex Symbol Parveen Babi was the highest paid actress at one point of time. She worked in several films with Amitabh Bachchan-‘Deewaar’ (1975), ‘Amar Akbar Anthony’ (1977), ‘Suhaag’ (1979) & ‘Kaala Patthar (1979. Also worked opposite Feroz Khan & Shashi Kapoor in successful films.

The actress did modelling before she made her debt with ‘Charitra’ (1973). Rose to recognition with the release of Amitabh starrer ‘Majboor’ in 1974, also starring Pran, Satyen Kapup & Rehman. I was present on the sets when a particular scene was underway. Amitabh Bachchan was still a newcomer. He tasted real stardom after the success of “Deewaar”. Parveen Babi hit the headlines when she featured on the cover of American magazine Time as a sign of his popularity worldwide. Her name was romantically linked with many including Danny, Mahesh Bhatt & Kabir Bedi.

Died 20 January 2005 unsung like many others.