Parveen Babi sent gifts to her doctor in Junagadh weeks before her mysterious death, reveals college friend

Parveen Babi sent gifts to her doctor in Junagadh weeks before her mysterious death, reveals college friend

• Parveen Babi remembered as gentle and thoughtful beyond her glamorous film image
• She struggled with mental illness, cared for by Dr. Nanavati in her final years
• Babi donated much of her assets to St. Xavier’s Trust before her death in 2005

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On the anniversary of Parveen Babi’s death, a quiet and deeply human memory has resurfaced, offering a softer glimpse into the life of one of Bollywood’s most enigmatic stars. College friend Hemant Nanavati recently shared recollections that reveal a side of Parveen far removed from her glamorous on-screen image.

Parveen Babi, remembered for redefining the modern Hindi film heroine in the 1970s and 80s, was bold, confident, and unapologetically ahead of her time. Yet, according to Hemant, who knew her from her college days, she was gentle, thoughtful, and deeply connected to her roots in Junagadh.

He recalled that during her later years in Mumbai, Parveen was struggling with a serious mental illness. Concerned about her condition, a respected physician from Junagadh, Dr. J. A. Nanavati, travelled specially to Mumbai to care for her. He stayed for nearly fifteen days, personally overseeing her treatment and well-being. Those close to her hoped she was slowly recovering.

Before Dr. Nanavati returned home, Parveen did something that now feels heartbreakingly symbolic. She sent gifts along with him for his relatives and acquaintances in Junagadh. Despite her isolation and struggles, she had not forgotten the people from her past. The gesture reflected affection, gratitude, and a quiet sense of closure, though no one realised it at the time.

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Weeks later, the news of her sudden death stunned Mumbai and Junagadh alike. Parveen Babi was found dead in her Mumbai apartment on January 20, 2005. She was 50. The circumstances surrounding her death were mysterious, and the silence in which she had been living added to the tragedy. Even today, her passing continues to evoke questions and sadness.

After her death, it emerged that Parveen had donated a significant portion of her assets to the St. Xavier’s Trust, a decision that once again pointed to her thoughtful and principled nature.

Born into the royal family of Junagadh, Parveen was educated at Government Girls High School before moving to St. Xavier’s College in Ahmedabad, where she met Hemant. Her striking beauty and intelligence soon caught attention, leading her to Mumbai and an extraordinary film career. She went on to star in iconic films such as Amar Akbar Anthony, Kaala Sona, and Suhaag, becoming one of the most popular actresses of her era.

Despite fame, success, and admiration, Parveen Babi never married and spent her final years largely alone. On her death anniversary today, these personal memories serve as a reminder that behind the star was a sensitive woman who remembered her roots, cared deeply for people, and quietly reached out with love till the very end.