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Stories I Must Tell: The Emotional Life of an Actor
Special offer! Download now and get a digitally signed copy of the ebook. Kabir Bedi, an international star and a man—like all men—with strengths and frailties. As Kabir bares his soul, the stories come tumbling out. That first magical encounter with the Beatles as a student in Delhi. The sudden move to Bombay, away from home, friends and college. His exciting years in advertising, his extraordinarily successful career abroad and his many painful setbacks. His relationships with the irrepressible Protima Bedi and the dazzling Parveen Babi that changed the course of his life. Of the scars they left, and the trauma of three divorces, and how he finally found fulfilment. And why his beliefs have changed. These are tumultuous stories set in Hollywood, Bollywood and Europe. The joys of blazing new trails abroad, and the dangers of them. He also tells the fascinating love story of his Indian father, a philosopher in Europe, and his British-born mother, the world’s highest-ranked Buddhist nun. And most poignant of all, the battle to save his schizophrenic son. Stories I Must Tell is the unusually candid and compelling memoir of a man who holds nothing back, in love or in storytelling. It is the story of a middle-class boy from Delhi whose career now spans the globe. Equally, it is the tale of how he survived the roller-coaster journey of the making, unmaking and remaking of him as a person.
370 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2021
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June 22, 2025
কবির বেদীকে এতোদিন চিনতাম দীর্ঘদেহী, মন্দ্রকণ্ঠের এক অভিনেতা হিসেবে। 'ম্যায় হুঁ না'র জেনারেল কিংবা 'মোহেন জো দারো'র মাহাম। এর বাইরে ছোট বড় নানা চরিত্রে। কিন্তু তিনি যে ইতালিতে 'সান্দোকান' নামে পরিচিত তা জানতাম না। মূলত কবির বেদী, ভারতের চেয়েও ইতালিতে বড় মাপের তারকা। কিন্তু তার চেয়েও কৌতূহলোদ্দীপক তার নিজের জীবন, পরিবার ও অভিজ্ঞতা।
কবিরের বাবার নাম বাবা বেদী। কবির গুরু নানকের ১৭তম উত্তরসূরী। বাবা বেদী আবার প্রথমে কমিউনিস্ট, পরে একজন 'প্রায় সাধু'। কবিরের মা ইংরেজ, পরবর্তীতে ভিক্ষুণী হয়ে বিশ্বে বুদ্ধের মহিমা প্রচার করেছেন। সনাতন ধারায় না, রীতিমতো সেমিনার, কনফারেন্স করে। কবির নিজেও ছোটবেলায় ন্যাড়া হয়ে ভিক্ষুর পোশাক পরেছিলেন তবে এর পরের জীবন ছিল রোলার কোস্টার রাইড।
বিটলসের সাক্ষাৎকার নেওয়া থেকে তার যাত্রা এবং এই বইয়ের সূচনা। বিশ পার করে তিনি অল ইন্ডিয়া রেডিও পরে বিজ্ঞাপন বানাতে গেলেন। এরপর এলেন অভিনয়ে। তার আগেই প্রতিমা বেদীর সঙ্গে পরিচয়, প্রেম, পরিণয়। প্রতিমা পরবর্তীতে নৃত্যে বিশেষ নাম করেছিলেন। কিন্তু কবির-প্রতিমার সংসার টেকেনি। এরপর পারভীন বাবি থেকে শুরু করে শেষ বয়সে পারভীন দুশানঞ্জের সঙ্গে কবিরের সংসার। এর মধ্যে ঘটে গেছে বহু ঘটনা। কবির অভিনয় করেছেন, কবির ব্যবসা করেছেন, কবির জিতেছেন, হেরেছেন। সেই সব কিছুর গল্প নিয়েই এই বই।
ওয়েস্টল্যান্ডের বইটা অন্তত বছর তিনেক চোখের সামনে দেখি। কবির বেদীর বই আদৌ পড়ব কিনা, সেই চিন্তার থেকে দামের চিন্তাটাই বেশি ছিল। ৭০০ রুপির বইটা অবশ্য পড়ার পর মনে হলো, বেশ বেশ। বিশেষত এই যে কবিরের এক্সট্রা অর্ডিনারি, বিচিত্র জীবন, সেটা জানার পাশাপাশি দেখলাম কবির 'ওয়েল রিড'। বিটলস, ডিলানের গানের পাশাপাশি গীতা থেকেও কোট করেন তিনি। ইসলাম নিয়ে দুই লাইন বললেও সেখানে দ্বেষ নাই। মানুষকেও দেখেন মানুষের নজরে। সেই সবকিছুর সাথে বলিউড, ইতালি, হলিউডের অভিজ্ঞতা মিলায়ে গুড রিড একটা বই।
কবিরের বাবার নাম বাবা বেদী। কবির গুরু নানকের ১৭তম উত্তরসূরী। বাবা বেদী আবার প্রথমে কমিউনিস্ট, পরে একজন 'প্রায় সাধু'। কবিরের মা ইংরেজ, পরবর্তীতে ভিক্ষুণী হয়ে বিশ্বে বুদ্ধের মহিমা প্রচার করেছেন। সনাতন ধারায় না, রীতিমতো সেমিনার, কনফারেন্স করে। কবির নিজেও ছোটবেলায় ন্যাড়া হয়ে ভিক্ষুর পোশাক পরেছিলেন তবে এর পরের জীবন ছিল রোলার কোস্টার রাইড।
বিটলসের সাক্ষাৎকার নেওয়া থেকে তার যাত্রা এবং এই বইয়ের সূচনা। বিশ পার করে তিনি অল ইন্ডিয়া রেডিও পরে বিজ্ঞাপন বানাতে গেলেন। এরপর এলেন অভিনয়ে। তার আগেই প্রতিমা বেদীর সঙ্গে পরিচয়, প্রেম, পরিণয়। প্রতিমা পরবর্তীতে নৃত্যে বিশেষ নাম করেছিলেন। কিন্তু কবির-প্রতিমার সংসার টেকেনি। এরপর পারভীন বাবি থেকে শুরু করে শেষ বয়সে পারভীন দুশানঞ্জের সঙ্গে কবিরের সংসার। এর মধ্যে ঘটে গেছে বহু ঘটনা। কবির অভিনয় করেছেন, কবির ব্যবসা করেছেন, কবির জিতেছেন, হেরেছেন। সেই সব কিছুর গল্প নিয়েই এই বই।
ওয়েস্টল্যান্ডের বইটা অন্তত বছর তিনেক চোখের সামনে দেখি। কবির বেদীর বই আদৌ পড়ব কিনা, সেই চিন্তার থেকে দামের চিন্তাটাই বেশি ছিল। ৭০০ রুপির বইটা অবশ্য পড়ার পর মনে হলো, বেশ বেশ। বিশেষত এই যে কবিরের এক্সট্রা অর্ডিনারি, বিচিত্র জীবন, সেটা জানার পাশাপাশি দেখলাম কবির 'ওয়েল রিড'। বিটলস, ডিলানের গানের পাশাপাশি গীতা থেকেও কোট করেন তিনি। ইসলাম নিয়ে দুই লাইন বললেও সেখানে দ্বেষ নাই। মানুষকেও দেখেন মানুষের নজরে। সেই সবকিছুর সাথে বলিউড, ইতালি, হলিউডের অভিজ্ঞতা মিলায়ে গুড রিড একটা বই।
May 24, 2021
I remember him best as Prince Omar in The Bold and The Beautiful, and the sinister husband in Khoon Bhari Maang. I’ve always wondered about his choices, his life; his memoir speaks to so much of who he is and has been, his journey. The bonus is how beautifully it speaks, the man can write and stir emotions.
6 hours of knowing Kabir Bedi, and I am not complaining ♥️
6 hours of knowing Kabir Bedi, and I am not complaining ♥️
June 27, 2022
An easy read, full of beautiful anecdotes from Kabir Bedi's life.
Apart from the fact that Kabir Bedi's life is an extraordinary medley of events, the honesty of narration stays with you. That is why the book gives a believable, non pompous view (only as much stripping down of vanity as one can expect from an actor) into the chances taken, mistakes made, lessons learnt and a life well lived. Helps the reader introspect on what they wish their life to look like, when they will look back on it many years later.
Apart from the fact that Kabir Bedi's life is an extraordinary medley of events, the honesty of narration stays with you. That is why the book gives a believable, non pompous view (only as much stripping down of vanity as one can expect from an actor) into the chances taken, mistakes made, lessons learnt and a life well lived. Helps the reader introspect on what they wish their life to look like, when they will look back on it many years later.
May 6, 2021
I don’t know whether to call Stories I Must Tell by Kabir Bedi an autobiography, because the impulse of the book is so defensive. It certainly has autobiographical elements, but its larger project seems to be to counter the casual playboy heartbreaker edifice that is built around Kabir Bedi. This is understandable because for so long Bedi’s story was told through and by the women in his life.
I wrote about the book here
I wrote about the book here
April 9, 2023
3.5 stars
July 31, 2021
Stories I Must Tell is unlike any other autobiography of an actor that I have ever read. Aptly titled, the book is a collection of stories from the enigmatic personality's equally mystifying life. As a rule, I do not give much attention to tabloid and Page 3 news, but whenever "sensational" news does float into my eyes and ears, I wonder that even if it were true, how would a media personality feel about having their life picked apart thread by thread. It must feel like a police search without a warrant over and over again.
An autobiography thus becomes an answer, not just to address, or rather redress, but to have a degree of control in their lives finally. With it comes a desire to share all the colourful stories that personality has gathered over the years. Bedi's book doesn't feel like a diary where he has laid bare his life; it seems more like a redressal of sorts. But in between the drama and the potpourri of relationships, Bedi's truest self shines through when he talks about his self-doubt, to be a parent, to be a partner, to be away from the place where he was most needed. These moments compose the man we see in front of us today, an amalgamation of experiences, right or wrong, aged like a fine whiskey.
I am sure that there is more to the stories that have been written, and not everything needs to be aired out. Bedi has structured his book aids the readers' interest in staying put, glued to the pages. It has evidently been a rollercoaster, and I am glad that the veteran actor decided to share some snippets with us through his book.
An autobiography thus becomes an answer, not just to address, or rather redress, but to have a degree of control in their lives finally. With it comes a desire to share all the colourful stories that personality has gathered over the years. Bedi's book doesn't feel like a diary where he has laid bare his life; it seems more like a redressal of sorts. But in between the drama and the potpourri of relationships, Bedi's truest self shines through when he talks about his self-doubt, to be a parent, to be a partner, to be away from the place where he was most needed. These moments compose the man we see in front of us today, an amalgamation of experiences, right or wrong, aged like a fine whiskey.
I am sure that there is more to the stories that have been written, and not everything needs to be aired out. Bedi has structured his book aids the readers' interest in staying put, glued to the pages. It has evidently been a rollercoaster, and I am glad that the veteran actor decided to share some snippets with us through his book.
September 18, 2021
Firstly, let's put the genre of the book aside as it is neither a piece in the progression to be called a biography nor is it guided by strings or memory to be called a memoir. In that sense, it is best to view this book as its title: stories that Mr. Bedi felt necessary to share.
Here, he talks about some of the women (from the plenty) of his life, his parents, one of his major projects, and his son.
• Talking about the commendable parts of this piece: I must say kudos to his honesty. He talks about everything in just as nakedness as he appears to be on the cover. Secondly, he manages to capture the Bohemian lifestyle of the riches of the 60s and 70s, and lastly, his golden era of success which we neither had the medium nor the drive to capture at that time is fascinating to read about.
Now about the hiccups of this book-
• The narrative: The book is majorly driven by the personal viewpoint and feelings of the narrator. Making it a single side of the coin.
It goes from being boasting with major name-dropping at places that didn't need the boasting elements. (Here not referring to his successful time for that deserves some flaunting) which makes you question the authenticity of the events, to narrating how much of an underdog he was just like everyone else before his achievements. The time frame makes you feel the events are contradictory.
Next, we see pages of defense, nonchalance, and abrasiveness about his choices specifically towards his lifestyle. The way he judged his behavior as obvious choices but bashed others for doing the same makes you not want to continue the book.
• The theme: (note: this para of review can be seen with bias)
For The Stories, I Must Tell The Emotional Life Of An Actor: The topics he had decided to touch upon were either turbulent times of life or all the public scandals. Hence, the book doesn't focus on his work as an actor apart from his famous venture Sandokan, every other work is a fleeting part of the story while his scandals take up more spotlight.
At one point the book turns into more of a biography of his parents than himself (which I enjoyed reading regardless of my opinion) so it makes you wonder why was it necessary to share these stories of an actor?
Overall, it's a good honest, and scandalous book that challenges the patience of the reader.
Here, he talks about some of the women (from the plenty) of his life, his parents, one of his major projects, and his son.
• Talking about the commendable parts of this piece: I must say kudos to his honesty. He talks about everything in just as nakedness as he appears to be on the cover. Secondly, he manages to capture the Bohemian lifestyle of the riches of the 60s and 70s, and lastly, his golden era of success which we neither had the medium nor the drive to capture at that time is fascinating to read about.
Now about the hiccups of this book-
• The narrative: The book is majorly driven by the personal viewpoint and feelings of the narrator. Making it a single side of the coin.
It goes from being boasting with major name-dropping at places that didn't need the boasting elements. (Here not referring to his successful time for that deserves some flaunting) which makes you question the authenticity of the events, to narrating how much of an underdog he was just like everyone else before his achievements. The time frame makes you feel the events are contradictory.
Next, we see pages of defense, nonchalance, and abrasiveness about his choices specifically towards his lifestyle. The way he judged his behavior as obvious choices but bashed others for doing the same makes you not want to continue the book.
• The theme: (note: this para of review can be seen with bias)
For The Stories, I Must Tell The Emotional Life Of An Actor: The topics he had decided to touch upon were either turbulent times of life or all the public scandals. Hence, the book doesn't focus on his work as an actor apart from his famous venture Sandokan, every other work is a fleeting part of the story while his scandals take up more spotlight.
At one point the book turns into more of a biography of his parents than himself (which I enjoyed reading regardless of my opinion) so it makes you wonder why was it necessary to share these stories of an actor?
Overall, it's a good honest, and scandalous book that challenges the patience of the reader.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2021
The book is simple as the man himself. I am not very fond of reading autobiographies. As soon as I received the book, I was amazed to see that each chapter started with a picture and ended with one or a whole lot of pictures. You dont get to see that in many books. The moment i started reading the book, it mentioned one of the greatest legends in music industry "The Beatles". After that i just could not stop reading it. To be very frank i was expecting some more instances of other music legends.
He inspires the youth to do what is best for him/her and not join the trending bandwagon. His love life tells a very important fact that one can fall in love as many times as one wants, irrespective of age, culture and religion, if you have the right intention. With his relationship with Parveen Babi, we can actually know what exactly might have happened which led to her death. This was not showcased in the media during her death. A person with such diversity and spiritual beliefs in the family comes out as a loving nomad for the entire world.
Before ending this......would love to say..... till now it was "Stories I Must Tell"..........next it has to be "Stories we deserve to hear".
Salute Sandokan.
He inspires the youth to do what is best for him/her and not join the trending bandwagon. His love life tells a very important fact that one can fall in love as many times as one wants, irrespective of age, culture and religion, if you have the right intention. With his relationship with Parveen Babi, we can actually know what exactly might have happened which led to her death. This was not showcased in the media during her death. A person with such diversity and spiritual beliefs in the family comes out as a loving nomad for the entire world.
Before ending this......would love to say..... till now it was "Stories I Must Tell"..........next it has to be "Stories we deserve to hear".
Salute Sandokan.
June 27, 2022
What a book! If you want to know more on Kabir Bedi and the truly charismatic and enigmatic life that he has lived till date, this book is for you.
I wanted to read about him as I was always inquisitive about his life and his lineage as well. He is one actor who has made some unconventional choices and was always ahead of his times.
Here he relates his life's work and his relationships (which are many), but i like the fact that he is not apologetic about it but in fact says that he has learned about himself in each of his relationships and he has some regrets but he took decisions which he considered best at that particular time.
He recounts his struggle and the loss of facing the death of his son who committed suicide as he was suffering form Schizophrenia. Although no one could have helped him, the guilt that a parent faces on the loss of a child who takes these extreme steps always stay with them.
I agree Kabir Bedi was never a huge star or a one who got many awards as such, but he truly acted in many Hollywood, Bollywood films in which he almost never got any recognition. His true fame when he performed in Sandokan, an Italian play where he became famous overnight and was considered a GOD in this country, where fans used to go berserk on seeing him.
Kabir mentions in detail about his parents and that they both were spiritual seekers and very active in the Indian freedom struggle. Right from playing with Rajiv and Sanjiv Gandhi in Indira Gandhi's house to knowing Alyque Padamsee and Dolly Thakore, Kabir knows he entire who's who fraternity of the Cinema, Theater, Arts, Fashion and many many actors of the 80s-90s era, He will be remembered always for his deep barritoned voice which has stolen many hearts along with his chiseled looks.
He described his relationships with Protima and Parveen in detail and given the fact that there are books written by these 2 ladies too makes it more interesting to check out the scandalous Love triangle. Overall an very interesting lead which will not make you wonder why you picked up this book for sure.
I wanted to read about him as I was always inquisitive about his life and his lineage as well. He is one actor who has made some unconventional choices and was always ahead of his times.
Here he relates his life's work and his relationships (which are many), but i like the fact that he is not apologetic about it but in fact says that he has learned about himself in each of his relationships and he has some regrets but he took decisions which he considered best at that particular time.
He recounts his struggle and the loss of facing the death of his son who committed suicide as he was suffering form Schizophrenia. Although no one could have helped him, the guilt that a parent faces on the loss of a child who takes these extreme steps always stay with them.
I agree Kabir Bedi was never a huge star or a one who got many awards as such, but he truly acted in many Hollywood, Bollywood films in which he almost never got any recognition. His true fame when he performed in Sandokan, an Italian play where he became famous overnight and was considered a GOD in this country, where fans used to go berserk on seeing him.
Kabir mentions in detail about his parents and that they both were spiritual seekers and very active in the Indian freedom struggle. Right from playing with Rajiv and Sanjiv Gandhi in Indira Gandhi's house to knowing Alyque Padamsee and Dolly Thakore, Kabir knows he entire who's who fraternity of the Cinema, Theater, Arts, Fashion and many many actors of the 80s-90s era, He will be remembered always for his deep barritoned voice which has stolen many hearts along with his chiseled looks.
He described his relationships with Protima and Parveen in detail and given the fact that there are books written by these 2 ladies too makes it more interesting to check out the scandalous Love triangle. Overall an very interesting lead which will not make you wonder why you picked up this book for sure.
July 30, 2021
Kabir Bedi - One of the first Indian actors to have made a mark in the Western entertainment industry. The title "Stories I must tell" seemed unusual at first, but, once you get through the book chapter by chapter, it starts making more and more sense. There are Stories about his life that he chose to tell, starting as an Interviewer for All India Radio to his days and ventures in the Western world. Along the way, there are parts of his personal life, falling in and out of love while living his life as a star. The part about losing his son is particularly sad, knowing that he is putting in all the work to save him, but depression eventually got the better of him. Overall, it's a journey of a man who has lived quite an eventful life. I ended up turning the pages of the book with a bit of curiosity, the stories that he chose to tell are certainly ones you'd like to read.
September 9, 2021
Week 36 Book 42
Stories I must tell by Kabir Bedi
Rating: 3/5
After Neena Gupta, it was Kabir Bedi's turn. He wasn't so popular in Bollywood but I always admired his looks. I was intrigued when he came out with his autobiography.
Learnt a lot about him: He is a direct descendant of Guru Nanak. He had quite the career outside India. He has married 4 times, and had numerous affairs. His son was schizophrenic and died by suicide. He spent some time in his childhood as a monk!
Interesting life story, well written. Though it slumps in pace at times and gets boring in pockets. This is much more candid than Neena Gupta's book - this is what you can read if looking for masala!
Stories I must tell by Kabir Bedi
Rating: 3/5
After Neena Gupta, it was Kabir Bedi's turn. He wasn't so popular in Bollywood but I always admired his looks. I was intrigued when he came out with his autobiography.
Learnt a lot about him: He is a direct descendant of Guru Nanak. He had quite the career outside India. He has married 4 times, and had numerous affairs. His son was schizophrenic and died by suicide. He spent some time in his childhood as a monk!
Interesting life story, well written. Though it slumps in pace at times and gets boring in pockets. This is much more candid than Neena Gupta's book - this is what you can read if looking for masala!
July 29, 2021
This book narrates the life & times of a star whose body of work was mostly outside India. It was nice to know the little known details of Kabir Bedi's life. It is an easy read and keeps up the pace right thru the book. It was interesting to know about the spiritual work of his parents. There are four biographies of his mother's life. He is rightly proud of his Sikh lineage. Sad to know about his son Sidharth's life. Overall a good book.
January 15, 2024
Hirtelen felindulásból vettem meg ezt a könyvet. Gyerekként persze szerelmes voltam Sandokanba meg a fekete kalózba, de utána alig valamiben láttam Kabir Bedit, A bagdadi tolvajra emlékszem még. Ehhez képest meglepően gazdag volt a pályafutása, bár sok volt közte a bollywoodi alkotás, amiket mi nem nagyon látunk, és a kisebb mellékszerep. Sosem értettem, hogyhogy nem lett igazán nagy sztár, de a titokra a könyvből sem derül fény.
A könyv kissé csapongó, nem kronológiai sorrendben halad, néha nem is volt könnyű összerakni az eseményeket, és váltakoznak a számomra érdekesebb és kevésbé érdekes részek. Nyilván a legérdekesebb a Sandokan létrejötte és forgatása volt, meg még A fekete kalózé, a legkevésbé érdekes, ahogy az édesanyja szerzetes lett, az apja pedig filozófus. Ez érdekes történet lett volna amúgy, csak épp ebben a könyvben nem tudott igazán lekötni, ha kimondottan erről akartam volna olvasni, jobban érdekelt volna, nekem inkább így csak egy nagy kitérő volt. De lehet, hogy az volt a baj, hogy nem igazán tudta érdekesen megfogalmazni, rengeteg volt benne a leírás meg a szakszó, amiket nem értettem.
Nem igazán szeretek önéletrajzi írásokat olvasni, mert sosem tudni, hogy a szerző mennyit árul el magáról és az mennyire tekinthető őszintének és hitelesnek. Ezúttal Bedit elég őszintének éreztem, nem hallgatta el élete nehézségeit, kudarcait sem, amiket a pályája és a magánélete során átélt. A legmegrázóbb számomra a nagyobbik fia öngyilkossága volt. Nehéz volt erről olvasni.
A legkevésbé azok a részek kötöttek le, ahol hosszan sorolja a neveket, akikkel együtt dolgozott vagy megismert, főleg, hogy sok volt köztük a számomra teljesen ismeretlen ember. Mégsem mondhatnám, hogy megbántam a könyv elolvasását, sok újat megtudtam Kabir Bediről.
A fordításról ejtenék még pár szót. Rengeteg benne az elírás és a következetlenség a neveket illetően, és ez nagyon zavart. Emellett a könyv mindjárt egy fordítói megjegyzéssel kezdődik: "A könyvben az idegen személy- és helységneveket többnyire egységesen a könyv angol szövegében szereplő eredeti alakjukban közöljük, nem akadémiai, tudományos vagy népszerű átírásban. Kivételt képeznek a magyar nyelvben meghonosodott alakok." Bevallom, az engem nagyon meghökkentett és fel is háborított, mert ezzel valami egészen borzalmas névalakok születtek. Pl. az indiai, delhi földrajzi nevek végén Road, Hill, Street. Hacsak nem ez a hivatalos indiai nevük, igen furcsa döntésnek találom. A legcsúnyább azonban ez volt: North Carolina. Észak-Karolina lesz az. Hasonló volt a különböző hivatalok angol nevének megtartása, valahogy kétlem, hogy ez lenne a hivatalos alakjuk Indiában, ám lehet, hogy tévedek. Engem ezek a nyelvi alakok kizökkentettek olvasás közben.
A könyv kissé csapongó, nem kronológiai sorrendben halad, néha nem is volt könnyű összerakni az eseményeket, és váltakoznak a számomra érdekesebb és kevésbé érdekes részek. Nyilván a legérdekesebb a Sandokan létrejötte és forgatása volt, meg még A fekete kalózé, a legkevésbé érdekes, ahogy az édesanyja szerzetes lett, az apja pedig filozófus. Ez érdekes történet lett volna amúgy, csak épp ebben a könyvben nem tudott igazán lekötni, ha kimondottan erről akartam volna olvasni, jobban érdekelt volna, nekem inkább így csak egy nagy kitérő volt. De lehet, hogy az volt a baj, hogy nem igazán tudta érdekesen megfogalmazni, rengeteg volt benne a leírás meg a szakszó, amiket nem értettem.
Nem igazán szeretek önéletrajzi írásokat olvasni, mert sosem tudni, hogy a szerző mennyit árul el magáról és az mennyire tekinthető őszintének és hitelesnek. Ezúttal Bedit elég őszintének éreztem, nem hallgatta el élete nehézségeit, kudarcait sem, amiket a pályája és a magánélete során átélt. A legmegrázóbb számomra a nagyobbik fia öngyilkossága volt. Nehéz volt erről olvasni.
A legkevésbé azok a részek kötöttek le, ahol hosszan sorolja a neveket, akikkel együtt dolgozott vagy megismert, főleg, hogy sok volt köztük a számomra teljesen ismeretlen ember. Mégsem mondhatnám, hogy megbántam a könyv elolvasását, sok újat megtudtam Kabir Bediről.
A fordításról ejtenék még pár szót. Rengeteg benne az elírás és a következetlenség a neveket illetően, és ez nagyon zavart. Emellett a könyv mindjárt egy fordítói megjegyzéssel kezdődik: "A könyvben az idegen személy- és helységneveket többnyire egységesen a könyv angol szövegében szereplő eredeti alakjukban közöljük, nem akadémiai, tudományos vagy népszerű átírásban. Kivételt képeznek a magyar nyelvben meghonosodott alakok." Bevallom, az engem nagyon meghökkentett és fel is háborított, mert ezzel valami egészen borzalmas névalakok születtek. Pl. az indiai, delhi földrajzi nevek végén Road, Hill, Street. Hacsak nem ez a hivatalos indiai nevük, igen furcsa döntésnek találom. A legcsúnyább azonban ez volt: North Carolina. Észak-Karolina lesz az. Hasonló volt a különböző hivatalok angol nevének megtartása, valahogy kétlem, hogy ez lenne a hivatalos alakjuk Indiában, ám lehet, hogy tévedek. Engem ezek a nyelvi alakok kizökkentettek olvasás közben.
December 6, 2021
An intimate account of everyone and everything thing that touched Kabir Bedi on a personal level. Reminiscent of his stardom in the 70s, india and abroad. The bits about the story of him mother and father were a revelation, surpassing in impact his own story in a way. The book also gives us a detailed account of his troubled relationships with Protima and Praveen Babi. Reading this story was my mark of respect to the only celebrity I have shaken hands with !
September 12, 2021
Kabir Bedi - stories I must tell
Early morning Keeping in mind that I am going to travel and fly high I asked Kabir Bedi sir to join me and be my travel companion. Since it’s a long excursion to Vijay Wada thought why not hear all the stories he has to tell. So subsequently we began our excursion and I was all set to know the passionate existence of an entertainer.
All around let me admit another thing for me this load of years Kabir Bedi was this man who I feared on account of his scene in Khoon Bhari Mang where he tossed Rekha to a lot of crocodiles to kill her. However, again in the melodies of the film he was a very hot looking man so I was very puzzled is he a Great man or an abhorrent man? In the wake of perusing this book I know he's a decent man and an extremely passionate one.
This book took me to a range of feelings he made me grin, chuckle, cry. I did everything except for putting the book down. I had never read magazines or tabloids articles on him so I was uninformed of his life other than some feature focuses. Through his excursion that he made in life from his loves tales, his mishaps and win and misfortune there were a great deal of learning's and two illustrations that I gain from him and that will remain with me are that “Our beliefs colour the way we see the World” and “Fortune favours the Brave”
I would recommend readers to read this but don’t pick it up as just an autobiography. Pick it with the idea that he’s meeting you and narrating few stories of his life. The way he has composed the book his accounts contact your heart, the trustworthiness stays with you. I figure I couldn't have a better travel partner for my long journey as his accounts inundated me and I forgot about the time.
Early morning Keeping in mind that I am going to travel and fly high I asked Kabir Bedi sir to join me and be my travel companion. Since it’s a long excursion to Vijay Wada thought why not hear all the stories he has to tell. So subsequently we began our excursion and I was all set to know the passionate existence of an entertainer.
All around let me admit another thing for me this load of years Kabir Bedi was this man who I feared on account of his scene in Khoon Bhari Mang where he tossed Rekha to a lot of crocodiles to kill her. However, again in the melodies of the film he was a very hot looking man so I was very puzzled is he a Great man or an abhorrent man? In the wake of perusing this book I know he's a decent man and an extremely passionate one.
This book took me to a range of feelings he made me grin, chuckle, cry. I did everything except for putting the book down. I had never read magazines or tabloids articles on him so I was uninformed of his life other than some feature focuses. Through his excursion that he made in life from his loves tales, his mishaps and win and misfortune there were a great deal of learning's and two illustrations that I gain from him and that will remain with me are that “Our beliefs colour the way we see the World” and “Fortune favours the Brave”
I would recommend readers to read this but don’t pick it up as just an autobiography. Pick it with the idea that he’s meeting you and narrating few stories of his life. The way he has composed the book his accounts contact your heart, the trustworthiness stays with you. I figure I couldn't have a better travel partner for my long journey as his accounts inundated me and I forgot about the time.
October 7, 2022
Stories I must tell.
No doubt, Kabir Bedi has several stories to tell. Sadly he leaves the best for later. In my view, he begins with the worst of the lot. By the time I got through the first two chapters, my spirits had already dampened. I was left wondering about the vain and irresponsible people inhabiting tinsel town.
Coming from the great lineage of guru Nanak Dev, he belonged to an illustrious family. His mother Freda was the highest Buddhist priestess. Kabir did live a charmed life....and I had great expectations from his book. I was disappointed. More so because I had read Protima Bedi's book and had found it crass. Kabir writes about his problems and the reasons he puts forward about how he faced them or overcame them....somehow didn't seem convincing enough. Anyway, since I read the book on a flight, it wasn't time wasted!
No doubt, Kabir Bedi has several stories to tell. Sadly he leaves the best for later. In my view, he begins with the worst of the lot. By the time I got through the first two chapters, my spirits had already dampened. I was left wondering about the vain and irresponsible people inhabiting tinsel town.
Coming from the great lineage of guru Nanak Dev, he belonged to an illustrious family. His mother Freda was the highest Buddhist priestess. Kabir did live a charmed life....and I had great expectations from his book. I was disappointed. More so because I had read Protima Bedi's book and had found it crass. Kabir writes about his problems and the reasons he puts forward about how he faced them or overcame them....somehow didn't seem convincing enough. Anyway, since I read the book on a flight, it wasn't time wasted!
August 1, 2021
Oh yes I am a big fan of cinema. It's not restricted to Indian Cinema but yes majority of books in that genre are full of stories of Indian Cinema and I am a north indian hindi speaking person and I want to know everything about them.
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Stories I Must Tell by Kabir Bedi was another gem in my treasure. The autobiography shows us the young boy Kabir, the passionate lover Kabir, the spiritual man, the father,the actor and the Italian star.
.
What often happens with when it comes to autobiographies of actors or celebrities is we enter the book with the pre-conceived notion and completely miss the other aspects of the book that have been written like the writing style, the humour,the narrative, the way he starts his story and the way he ends certain aspects of his story.
.
As you go further in the stories you notice how some chapters of his lives are written at a stretch and some stories of his life he hasn't much talked about.
.
Which makes me as a reader think why would it be like that and I want to know more. As a reviewer,as a fan about cinema you know there are stories they have missed out.stories that the world doesn't need to know.
.
What I liked from the beginning of the title was the MUST. The necessity of those stories tell a lot about the person he is. They have shed their media built personality and the actor image which very few personalities are able to do so. This autobiography is a 5 star ⭐ for me. Kabir Bedi is a highly learned man and I can't wait what next the actor has in store.
.
Stories I Must Tell by Kabir Bedi was another gem in my treasure. The autobiography shows us the young boy Kabir, the passionate lover Kabir, the spiritual man, the father,the actor and the Italian star.
.
What often happens with when it comes to autobiographies of actors or celebrities is we enter the book with the pre-conceived notion and completely miss the other aspects of the book that have been written like the writing style, the humour,the narrative, the way he starts his story and the way he ends certain aspects of his story.
.
As you go further in the stories you notice how some chapters of his lives are written at a stretch and some stories of his life he hasn't much talked about.
.
Which makes me as a reader think why would it be like that and I want to know more. As a reviewer,as a fan about cinema you know there are stories they have missed out.stories that the world doesn't need to know.
.
What I liked from the beginning of the title was the MUST. The necessity of those stories tell a lot about the person he is. They have shed their media built personality and the actor image which very few personalities are able to do so. This autobiography is a 5 star ⭐ for me. Kabir Bedi is a highly learned man and I can't wait what next the actor has in store.
July 31, 2021
A fascinating read
I received the book after attending the Exclusive Kabir Bedi session with the audiences. Hearing his experiences made me more and more curious to read all about it. Where and how, what and when went along with him. Reading the book made me experience all the ups and downs which Kabir Sir went through. The honesty with which Kabir Sir describes all that went through on with his life is just astonishing. To admit faults, to admit defeat, to admit humility, no one accepts these things easily, so that’s a plus point while reading his autobiography.
One particular story that touched my heart was the suicide of his son Siddharth and what he went through, the emotional turmoil that went within him, it just makes you feel towards him more and more. One more chapter which I loved absolutely was “Ramblings on the Beach”, where he writes about his thoughts when walking on a beach when he was 29 years old. It explores his personality, touches his soul and the way he thinks. Stories like when he single handedly did an interview of the Beatles, the childhood friendship of Rajiv and Sanjay Gandhi, and especially when he was awarded the highest civilian honour of Italy. I can make sure of this that anyone who reads this books will be taken on a journey of his life along with him personally guiding you through every aspect of his life.
The book is written in a very fluid language and explained in the best possible way there is. Even teenagers can read and understand the complexity of emotions given in this book. An Absolutely Fascinating Read.
I received the book after attending the Exclusive Kabir Bedi session with the audiences. Hearing his experiences made me more and more curious to read all about it. Where and how, what and when went along with him. Reading the book made me experience all the ups and downs which Kabir Sir went through. The honesty with which Kabir Sir describes all that went through on with his life is just astonishing. To admit faults, to admit defeat, to admit humility, no one accepts these things easily, so that’s a plus point while reading his autobiography.
One particular story that touched my heart was the suicide of his son Siddharth and what he went through, the emotional turmoil that went within him, it just makes you feel towards him more and more. One more chapter which I loved absolutely was “Ramblings on the Beach”, where he writes about his thoughts when walking on a beach when he was 29 years old. It explores his personality, touches his soul and the way he thinks. Stories like when he single handedly did an interview of the Beatles, the childhood friendship of Rajiv and Sanjay Gandhi, and especially when he was awarded the highest civilian honour of Italy. I can make sure of this that anyone who reads this books will be taken on a journey of his life along with him personally guiding you through every aspect of his life.
The book is written in a very fluid language and explained in the best possible way there is. Even teenagers can read and understand the complexity of emotions given in this book. An Absolutely Fascinating Read.
July 28, 2021
The book is an autobiography of a sauve actor who ages like a fine-wine. The book describes the journey of the author, from being a middle-class part-time journalist in Delhi to being the cynosure of all the paparazzi wherever he went across Italy. Before I began reading the book, I got hooked to its cover. Mr Bedi's eyes do a lot of talking, though in person he is a laconic man & as I began reading, I was engulfed into his elegant writing style.
Every single element of this book makes it unique read. Mr. Bedi has done a marvellous job in his debut book. Being such a huge celebrity it is definitely not an easy task to put forward one's deepest and darkest secrets in front of the whole world, but he did it with such fluency that I was awed by his frivolity and could deeply connect with him.
The best thing about this book or rather Mr.Bedi's life journey is that no matter how many hardships, criticism or failed relationships he faced, he never lost his faith in love & proved that age is just a number. He never got carried away by his success, stood rooted to his grounds & that is what makes him a unique person.
There is so much more to talk about this book but I guess right now it's enough. A must must read guys. Even I am going to give it another rate. You will be thrilled and stunned after reading this one.
Every single element of this book makes it unique read. Mr. Bedi has done a marvellous job in his debut book. Being such a huge celebrity it is definitely not an easy task to put forward one's deepest and darkest secrets in front of the whole world, but he did it with such fluency that I was awed by his frivolity and could deeply connect with him.
The best thing about this book or rather Mr.Bedi's life journey is that no matter how many hardships, criticism or failed relationships he faced, he never lost his faith in love & proved that age is just a number. He never got carried away by his success, stood rooted to his grounds & that is what makes him a unique person.
There is so much more to talk about this book but I guess right now it's enough. A must must read guys. Even I am going to give it another rate. You will be thrilled and stunned after reading this one.
April 25, 2021
It is honestly admitted true stories of lovely relationships and separation. Flow is such that readers remains engrossed till end and remains connected fully.A must read for everybody. Boldly written by actor of international repute , not only in films but in theatres also in different countries and continents of asia, America and Europe.Elrgant description of relationships of not only love life but of parents, father-son , father with daughter. Ups and downs covered with inner feelings. It covers how relationships took births and then died.Narration of losses and gains , not only money , but emotional life also covered very well.Highly recommended for readers desiring to know lives of celebrities of international level.
Satya prakash
Satya prakash
July 29, 2021
Thoroughly entertaining. Tantalising revelations of an international film star. Behind the scenes stories and exciting anecdotes of celebrities.
Movies, spirituality, history, glamour, triumphs and tragedies come together in this roller coaster autobiography of a legend.
Movies, spirituality, history, glamour, triumphs and tragedies come together in this roller coaster autobiography of a legend.
February 15, 2022
I have read this book in 3 days, very emotional. Kabir put his soul naked writing about success and mistakes. A legend as an actor but above all a legend as a person. Prepare some tissues as some paragraphs will make you cry. And the rest... will give you shiver!
So happy to have bought it.
So happy to have bought it.
July 15, 2021
The Monk , the maverick Kabir Bedi , who became an actor in India , Italy and Hollywood has penned a wonderful tale of his extraordinary life in "Stories I Must Tell .. The Emotional Life of an Actor " HB Westland Publications , 311 Pages , Price Rs. 699/- Several black and white and colour photographs carry his story along as one reads .
This is the story of a much married man , born in Lahore in 1946 , to an English mother who gave her youth to marry the communist father of Kabir Bedi .Both parents paths diverged from being freedom fighters to mother becoming the highest ordained western Tibetan nun and his father became a mystical guru who founded in Italy his own meditation centre .Kabir Bedi's lineage runs from Guru Nanak as all Bedis claim to be .
Writing the book , Kabir holds little back and writes with fluidity of his journey and of the women he walked with on this journey from Protima , Parveen Babi , Nikki , Parveen- Dusanj et all .
Book makes an interesting read as he spills his life on the pages of his time with the ever demanding Protima who always wished to be at the centre of it all wherever she was .
He begins his professional life story from the one he managed to get a scoop of Beatles when they were in Delhi in 1966 for All India Radio .
His poetry written at age 7 shows unmistakably of the genius in the child who an year earlier had donned robes of a Buddhist monk novice in Burma , barefooted for months , even as his mother Freda was exploring Buddhism .
His years with Protima who gave him two kids , of whom only Pooja lives today though , were his passionate ones amidst advertising world where they were both nourished and grown .
Just before Protima went to Mt.Kailash , never to return , she had written an insightful letter which seems foreboding of her consciousness ...'I know how destiny works and how the karmic cycle is endless , and I also know it doesn't end with death , for it is her veil between this and the other birth , the other , the next life , and we shall meet again..."
Of Parveen Babi Kabir says "And ,oh my god , she was beautiful :haunting dark eyes in a perfect oval face , black hairs cascading down her shoulders ,lips as luscious as peaches ..Her body was every man's dream "In an interview with Stardust magazine Bedi had said "With Parveen and me, I think it's a case of two very lonely , very beautiful people finding each other at the right times in their lives."
His years with Parveen Babi were the most traumatic ones beset as she was with a suffering mind of paranoia she never accepted and never wished to be treated of .His parting with Parveen was painful as he set his sights on Hollywood .
In early 2000 as I was walking clad with a turban on my head , at a fashion event in Milan I would hear people calling me , as Sandokan .I was , I must admit , unaware of the hugely popular TV series of this name in which Kabir Bedi wearing a turban performed the lead role .
Sandokan was perhaps the zenith of Kabir Bedi's fame as the TV serial set a hysteria amongst fan followings in Italy , Spain , France and Germany .An uncontrollable female fan in Spain shouted out that she wanted a child born from Sandokan such was his glory In those day of late 1970's .
It was later that Kabir Bedi did Octopussy -a Bond film that brought him more laurels and TV serials including The Bold and the Beautiful .
The winds are stronger than wings and so life takes us on course where our wings cannot .Kabir's tale is an absorbing one more so with wonderful words he has chosen to script his story .For he is a product of the best boarding schools of India and of St.Stephens in Delhi .
We all love to have a peek into the lives of stars and here is one written with no holds barred for it is of a man who refused to tow a scripted one and lived his life , his own way .
"Happy the man , and happy he alone ,
he who can call today his own :
he who, secure within , can say ,
Tomorrow do thy worst , for I have lived today ."
This is the story of a much married man , born in Lahore in 1946 , to an English mother who gave her youth to marry the communist father of Kabir Bedi .Both parents paths diverged from being freedom fighters to mother becoming the highest ordained western Tibetan nun and his father became a mystical guru who founded in Italy his own meditation centre .Kabir Bedi's lineage runs from Guru Nanak as all Bedis claim to be .
Writing the book , Kabir holds little back and writes with fluidity of his journey and of the women he walked with on this journey from Protima , Parveen Babi , Nikki , Parveen- Dusanj et all .
Book makes an interesting read as he spills his life on the pages of his time with the ever demanding Protima who always wished to be at the centre of it all wherever she was .
He begins his professional life story from the one he managed to get a scoop of Beatles when they were in Delhi in 1966 for All India Radio .
His poetry written at age 7 shows unmistakably of the genius in the child who an year earlier had donned robes of a Buddhist monk novice in Burma , barefooted for months , even as his mother Freda was exploring Buddhism .
His years with Protima who gave him two kids , of whom only Pooja lives today though , were his passionate ones amidst advertising world where they were both nourished and grown .
Just before Protima went to Mt.Kailash , never to return , she had written an insightful letter which seems foreboding of her consciousness ...'I know how destiny works and how the karmic cycle is endless , and I also know it doesn't end with death , for it is her veil between this and the other birth , the other , the next life , and we shall meet again..."
Of Parveen Babi Kabir says "And ,oh my god , she was beautiful :haunting dark eyes in a perfect oval face , black hairs cascading down her shoulders ,lips as luscious as peaches ..Her body was every man's dream "In an interview with Stardust magazine Bedi had said "With Parveen and me, I think it's a case of two very lonely , very beautiful people finding each other at the right times in their lives."
His years with Parveen Babi were the most traumatic ones beset as she was with a suffering mind of paranoia she never accepted and never wished to be treated of .His parting with Parveen was painful as he set his sights on Hollywood .
In early 2000 as I was walking clad with a turban on my head , at a fashion event in Milan I would hear people calling me , as Sandokan .I was , I must admit , unaware of the hugely popular TV series of this name in which Kabir Bedi wearing a turban performed the lead role .
Sandokan was perhaps the zenith of Kabir Bedi's fame as the TV serial set a hysteria amongst fan followings in Italy , Spain , France and Germany .An uncontrollable female fan in Spain shouted out that she wanted a child born from Sandokan such was his glory In those day of late 1970's .
It was later that Kabir Bedi did Octopussy -a Bond film that brought him more laurels and TV serials including The Bold and the Beautiful .
The winds are stronger than wings and so life takes us on course where our wings cannot .Kabir's tale is an absorbing one more so with wonderful words he has chosen to script his story .For he is a product of the best boarding schools of India and of St.Stephens in Delhi .
We all love to have a peek into the lives of stars and here is one written with no holds barred for it is of a man who refused to tow a scripted one and lived his life , his own way .
"Happy the man , and happy he alone ,
he who can call today his own :
he who, secure within , can say ,
Tomorrow do thy worst , for I have lived today ."
February 7, 2022
"Film stars are the objects of a million fantasies. But they are not objects. They are people with the strengths and frailties of the human race. For all their glory, film stars are insecure as the rest. Fame can be a moment in the sun or a lifetime of adulation."
Kabir Bedi, the quintessential greek God, originating from the land of elephants and snake charmers and making a mark in the west. For me, he has always been an outsider rather than an insider. This is partly because of his looks and mainly because most of his work has been outside India. Bedi's life has been an open book since the very start. I kept wondering what prompted him to write a biography. The question lingered until I picked up this book. I understood his need to show the world his side of the story? Reactions to the situation float around as popular stories and conceptions about him.
He has touched on the most sensitive aspects of his life in the book. Bared it all (well, most of it, I believe.). Through his book, he has reached everyone's drawing-room.
I was amazed to know that he is the seventeenth descendant of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The guru of the Sikh religion. I also did not know that he went to school with Ranjiv and Sanjay Gandhi. The book is divided into chapters where he talks about the critical events and people in his life at a great length. Beneath the casanova lies a sensitive and loving heart, sometimes full of guilt and remorse.
An actor who craved to make a mark in his own country.
An ordinary man who made some bad investment decisions and incurred huge losses.
An eternal romantic who believed in love and married four times despite broken relationships.
A believer who explored and was exposed to many religions and imbibed the best from each. He rose above color, nationalism, and beliefs.
I wounded father who questioned himself after his son ended his life unceremoniously.
An onscreen villain who the audience couldn't bring themselves to detest and hate.
His life story is exciting and fascinating even. Some chapters, though, are excruciatingly detailed, especially chapter two, where he talks about working in Italy. I found the book had a defensive tone in bits and patches.
Overall it was an average read about the personality whose magical charm spread internationally.
Kabir Bedi, the quintessential greek God, originating from the land of elephants and snake charmers and making a mark in the west. For me, he has always been an outsider rather than an insider. This is partly because of his looks and mainly because most of his work has been outside India. Bedi's life has been an open book since the very start. I kept wondering what prompted him to write a biography. The question lingered until I picked up this book. I understood his need to show the world his side of the story? Reactions to the situation float around as popular stories and conceptions about him.
He has touched on the most sensitive aspects of his life in the book. Bared it all (well, most of it, I believe.). Through his book, he has reached everyone's drawing-room.
I was amazed to know that he is the seventeenth descendant of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The guru of the Sikh religion. I also did not know that he went to school with Ranjiv and Sanjay Gandhi. The book is divided into chapters where he talks about the critical events and people in his life at a great length. Beneath the casanova lies a sensitive and loving heart, sometimes full of guilt and remorse.
An actor who craved to make a mark in his own country.
An ordinary man who made some bad investment decisions and incurred huge losses.
An eternal romantic who believed in love and married four times despite broken relationships.
A believer who explored and was exposed to many religions and imbibed the best from each. He rose above color, nationalism, and beliefs.
I wounded father who questioned himself after his son ended his life unceremoniously.
An onscreen villain who the audience couldn't bring themselves to detest and hate.
His life story is exciting and fascinating even. Some chapters, though, are excruciatingly detailed, especially chapter two, where he talks about working in Italy. I found the book had a defensive tone in bits and patches.
Overall it was an average read about the personality whose magical charm spread internationally.
February 9, 2025
This book was an unexpected delight! I had no intention of reading it and started with low expectations. However, listening to the audiobook while reading the book, narrated by the author Kabir Bedi himself, was a game-changer. His deep, husky voice brought his life story and writing to life, and I finished the book in less than a week!
I was only familiar with the author's role in the movie Khoon Bhari Maang, so by the end of the book, I was astonished, surprised, emotional, and proud. The revelations in each chapter left me gasping. I shared new and controversial information with my friends, cousins, and colleagues as I read, and despite not being readers, they were equally interested.
Kabir's writing has been brutally honest about his life - his relationships, affairs, money troubles, failed marriages and family drama. He's put it all out there, the good, the bad and the ugly.
Big names are thrown around like they're just any other character in the book - Kapil Sibal, Randhir Singh, S. Y. Quraishi (Former Chief Election Commissioner of India), and even childhood stories with the Gandhi sons (Sanjay & Rajiv). It's so random that it makes you wonder if the author's just name-dropping to get attention (but then again, a global star like him probably doesn't need to).
The books provided a captivating glimpse into the lives of the author's parents - his father, a revered philosopher and 16th descendant of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, and his mother, a devout Buddhist nun. Both were spiritual leaders, ardent nationalists, and influential figures in post-partition Kashmir.
The only thing that bugged me about the whole experience was that the audiobook was different from the original book. They changed words, cut lines, removed sections, and even left out names! There might be reasons for it, but it was annoying for me. I like to play the audiobook while reading the book – especially with memoirs, it's like getting an enhanced experience, hearing it from the author themselves. I guess my reading style is kinda limited.
It is absolutely worth reading this book at least once. The author is a global icon in film, television, and theater, and we should be proud of his accomplishments.
I was only familiar with the author's role in the movie Khoon Bhari Maang, so by the end of the book, I was astonished, surprised, emotional, and proud. The revelations in each chapter left me gasping. I shared new and controversial information with my friends, cousins, and colleagues as I read, and despite not being readers, they were equally interested.
Kabir's writing has been brutally honest about his life - his relationships, affairs, money troubles, failed marriages and family drama. He's put it all out there, the good, the bad and the ugly.
Big names are thrown around like they're just any other character in the book - Kapil Sibal, Randhir Singh, S. Y. Quraishi (Former Chief Election Commissioner of India), and even childhood stories with the Gandhi sons (Sanjay & Rajiv). It's so random that it makes you wonder if the author's just name-dropping to get attention (but then again, a global star like him probably doesn't need to).
The books provided a captivating glimpse into the lives of the author's parents - his father, a revered philosopher and 16th descendant of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, and his mother, a devout Buddhist nun. Both were spiritual leaders, ardent nationalists, and influential figures in post-partition Kashmir.
The only thing that bugged me about the whole experience was that the audiobook was different from the original book. They changed words, cut lines, removed sections, and even left out names! There might be reasons for it, but it was annoying for me. I like to play the audiobook while reading the book – especially with memoirs, it's like getting an enhanced experience, hearing it from the author themselves. I guess my reading style is kinda limited.
It is absolutely worth reading this book at least once. The author is a global icon in film, television, and theater, and we should be proud of his accomplishments.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 16, 2022
"Stories I Must Tell: The Emotional Life of an Actor" by Kabir Bedi, was one of my favorite reads over the past year.
Kabir Bedi's memoir is a delightful gust of fresh air in the celebrity autobiography genre. His recollections and self reflection of a most fascinating life, amounts to duly justifying the title - Stories I Must Tell.
Each chapter is dedicated to a figure or experience in Bedi's life. His years with his first wife Protima, followed by his famous relationship with Bollywood superstar Parveen Babi, epitomized 1970’s most ‘liberal’ Bombay lifestyle. An open marriage or living together out of wedlock or running naked on the beach for a photoshoot in 70s India, they were creating stories for the ages.
Bedi recollects his time with Babi and her growing mental health problems with the sensitivity of one who truly loved. The passionate love affair with Babi spans over the years when Bedi discovers mega stardom in EU with the Italian pirate adventure "Sandokan". His sudden ultra stardom unfortunately marks the beginning of the end with Babi, as her challenges with mental health grow. This is a chapter for Bollywood buffs to devour, though not in the least sensationalized and written with heart and respect.
I was captivated yet again by the section on Bedi's most unusual and mystical parents. Once revolutionaries during the Indo-Pak partition, his Indian father and British mother's lives enigmatically evolve as they embark on two very distinct spiritual journeys, of becoming a spiritual healer and an ordained Tibetan Buddhist nun respectively.
Growing up with the Gandhis, interviewing The Beatles, discussing Tagore with Audrey Hepburn are among the many chance encounters or close relationships with global figures.
Yet, Bedi writes his stories with utmost humility, addressing his lowest lows, both personal (losing his son) and financial. His own spiritual journey & explaining his respect for all religions are among my favorite parts of the book.
I'd highly recommend this memoir as a generally intriguing and fulfilling read on the extraordinary life of a once ordinary Delhi boy.
Kabir Bedi's memoir is a delightful gust of fresh air in the celebrity autobiography genre. His recollections and self reflection of a most fascinating life, amounts to duly justifying the title - Stories I Must Tell.
Each chapter is dedicated to a figure or experience in Bedi's life. His years with his first wife Protima, followed by his famous relationship with Bollywood superstar Parveen Babi, epitomized 1970’s most ‘liberal’ Bombay lifestyle. An open marriage or living together out of wedlock or running naked on the beach for a photoshoot in 70s India, they were creating stories for the ages.
Bedi recollects his time with Babi and her growing mental health problems with the sensitivity of one who truly loved. The passionate love affair with Babi spans over the years when Bedi discovers mega stardom in EU with the Italian pirate adventure "Sandokan". His sudden ultra stardom unfortunately marks the beginning of the end with Babi, as her challenges with mental health grow. This is a chapter for Bollywood buffs to devour, though not in the least sensationalized and written with heart and respect.
I was captivated yet again by the section on Bedi's most unusual and mystical parents. Once revolutionaries during the Indo-Pak partition, his Indian father and British mother's lives enigmatically evolve as they embark on two very distinct spiritual journeys, of becoming a spiritual healer and an ordained Tibetan Buddhist nun respectively.
Growing up with the Gandhis, interviewing The Beatles, discussing Tagore with Audrey Hepburn are among the many chance encounters or close relationships with global figures.
Yet, Bedi writes his stories with utmost humility, addressing his lowest lows, both personal (losing his son) and financial. His own spiritual journey & explaining his respect for all religions are among my favorite parts of the book.
I'd highly recommend this memoir as a generally intriguing and fulfilling read on the extraordinary life of a once ordinary Delhi boy.
October 9, 2021
"Film stars are the objects of a million fantasies. But they are not objects. They are people with the strengths and frailties of the human race. For all their glory, film stars are insecure as the rest. Fame can be a moment in the sun or a lifetime of adulation."
.
Who doesn't know this sinister yet irresistible villain of bollywood. From his acts on 'Khoon Bhari Maang", he was always perceived by the 'Child me' as the most dangerous man on earth who let his wife to die in the pool full of crocodiles. Must say, such is the influence of being a great actor.
Stories I Must Tell- an autobiography, will allow you to know this fine actor from a closer vicinity, not only his glamorous professional life, but also the various anecdotes from his personal life. This book will let you travel through the timeless era of pre and post Independence, peeping into the lives of his spiritual parents, the actresses and various other veteran personalities associated with him. The book was equally an enthralling and heart throbbing read with some greater life lessons learnt through his experiences, mistakes, infuriations and in depth outlooks. The chapters were categorized based on his significant life events, rather chronological and appreciated the way of its portrayal. I loved the expressions, the word play, and even the finer introductions of each of the characters written with much of thoughtfulness.
A celebrity is not always the one shown to us by the paparazzis, but they are much more to the smiles on the pages and frames. After all not to forget, they are the human beings too.
They too have their own insecurities, turmoils, emotional limbos, and irrevocable voids. They too can grieve on someone's loss, and celebrate for the success of their own or someone closer. The book has been a roller coaster of joy and grief, success and failure, emotional fulfillment and challenges, all equally blended to build the 'veteran Kabir Bedi' and his autobiography- 'Stories I Must Tell.'
.
Who doesn't know this sinister yet irresistible villain of bollywood. From his acts on 'Khoon Bhari Maang", he was always perceived by the 'Child me' as the most dangerous man on earth who let his wife to die in the pool full of crocodiles. Must say, such is the influence of being a great actor.
Stories I Must Tell- an autobiography, will allow you to know this fine actor from a closer vicinity, not only his glamorous professional life, but also the various anecdotes from his personal life. This book will let you travel through the timeless era of pre and post Independence, peeping into the lives of his spiritual parents, the actresses and various other veteran personalities associated with him. The book was equally an enthralling and heart throbbing read with some greater life lessons learnt through his experiences, mistakes, infuriations and in depth outlooks. The chapters were categorized based on his significant life events, rather chronological and appreciated the way of its portrayal. I loved the expressions, the word play, and even the finer introductions of each of the characters written with much of thoughtfulness.
A celebrity is not always the one shown to us by the paparazzis, but they are much more to the smiles on the pages and frames. After all not to forget, they are the human beings too.
They too have their own insecurities, turmoils, emotional limbos, and irrevocable voids. They too can grieve on someone's loss, and celebrate for the success of their own or someone closer. The book has been a roller coaster of joy and grief, success and failure, emotional fulfillment and challenges, all equally blended to build the 'veteran Kabir Bedi' and his autobiography- 'Stories I Must Tell.'
Read
March 11, 2022Isn’t it a general notion that within the glit and glamour, it's shallow and mostly all pretence? Definitely not an opinion I could hang onto after reading ‘Stories I must tell’ by Kabir Bedi. It for once revealed there could be people with depth and density who have exhibited a temperament for intellectual inquiry. Precisely what I felt when reading the book.
The hardbound three hundred and eleven pages book, published by Westland, opens up revealing a beautiful Indian for what he was and has been, a contemporary from the fringes of pre independent India. He is quite candid when he tell us how from a mediocre beginning he made it under the arc lights. Somewhere he says, one reason why he looked beyond the shores of India was because he wasn’t comfortable with some of the demands of Bollywood. But then we move on and read how he set screens ablaze and stages aflame elsewhere; Life was rocking. But that was not without punctuations of personal tragedies, which by contrast was too intense and damaging.
Quite often I see him transgressing the mundane, extending his thoughts seeking answers to his existential dilemmas as also getting analytic of his successes. He introspects, most often from the contemporary socio political stalemates.
Kabir’s opening in ‘Tughlaq’, even when it was a brave and innovative theatrical experiment equally marked his own unorthodox entry into a career in acting proving his versatility. ‘Stories I must tell’, though the narrative predictably absorbs the glamour considering who it is about, yet is not without well thought out philosophical musings. We see them in all its clarity when he says, 'what we do, or don't do has greater consequences than we imagine. Whatever I did in the past has got me to where I am today'.
Dolly Thakore, author of ‘Regrets none’ is testifying honesty of the narrative when she wrote, ‘In that one year in Delhi, we met the same people who later became ambassadors and ministers, and even a Prime Minister. We went for our All India Radio audition together.’ That takes me to the opening of the book, an interview of a ‘radically different’ music band he pulled off for AIR. Being a programmer myself with over three decades as staff, the experience and elation he must have felt at the time is something I could relate in all its entirety. And when he says how the recording was lost for good because somebody needed a tape very badly, I can’t but feel how obnoxious it must have been and believe me, this was not the first time it happened there. Yet, wasn’t this experience responsible for what we got from him today?’
Through the narrative we come to know of the various assignments which catapulted him to the world stage. From Bollywood to Hollywood. His fame in Italy. His receptivity in various parts of the world. Few are those Indians from the industry who have been able to amass that kind of adulation worldwide. But the tragedies in his life somehow or the other bulges in the narrative for the sheer pain they evoke. The losses had been dear and we can see how the wounds remained. They nevertheless offer insight into some lesser known facts. However, the narrative is not without its lighter moments.
Readability, the book is as affable as the persona it portrays and intermittently offers a glimpse into some interesting moments of his life, the photos speak for themselves. 'Arrivederci', is how he closes, meaning 'till we meet again'. Indeed that's the hope we harbour. The best maybe, is yet to come. And we, can't wait for it.
The hardbound three hundred and eleven pages book, published by Westland, opens up revealing a beautiful Indian for what he was and has been, a contemporary from the fringes of pre independent India. He is quite candid when he tell us how from a mediocre beginning he made it under the arc lights. Somewhere he says, one reason why he looked beyond the shores of India was because he wasn’t comfortable with some of the demands of Bollywood. But then we move on and read how he set screens ablaze and stages aflame elsewhere; Life was rocking. But that was not without punctuations of personal tragedies, which by contrast was too intense and damaging.
Quite often I see him transgressing the mundane, extending his thoughts seeking answers to his existential dilemmas as also getting analytic of his successes. He introspects, most often from the contemporary socio political stalemates.
Kabir’s opening in ‘Tughlaq’, even when it was a brave and innovative theatrical experiment equally marked his own unorthodox entry into a career in acting proving his versatility. ‘Stories I must tell’, though the narrative predictably absorbs the glamour considering who it is about, yet is not without well thought out philosophical musings. We see them in all its clarity when he says, 'what we do, or don't do has greater consequences than we imagine. Whatever I did in the past has got me to where I am today'.
Dolly Thakore, author of ‘Regrets none’ is testifying honesty of the narrative when she wrote, ‘In that one year in Delhi, we met the same people who later became ambassadors and ministers, and even a Prime Minister. We went for our All India Radio audition together.’ That takes me to the opening of the book, an interview of a ‘radically different’ music band he pulled off for AIR. Being a programmer myself with over three decades as staff, the experience and elation he must have felt at the time is something I could relate in all its entirety. And when he says how the recording was lost for good because somebody needed a tape very badly, I can’t but feel how obnoxious it must have been and believe me, this was not the first time it happened there. Yet, wasn’t this experience responsible for what we got from him today?’
Through the narrative we come to know of the various assignments which catapulted him to the world stage. From Bollywood to Hollywood. His fame in Italy. His receptivity in various parts of the world. Few are those Indians from the industry who have been able to amass that kind of adulation worldwide. But the tragedies in his life somehow or the other bulges in the narrative for the sheer pain they evoke. The losses had been dear and we can see how the wounds remained. They nevertheless offer insight into some lesser known facts. However, the narrative is not without its lighter moments.
Readability, the book is as affable as the persona it portrays and intermittently offers a glimpse into some interesting moments of his life, the photos speak for themselves. 'Arrivederci', is how he closes, meaning 'till we meet again'. Indeed that's the hope we harbour. The best maybe, is yet to come. And we, can't wait for it.
October 11, 2024
Why I find this book interesting is because Kabir Bedi has a photographic memory and he recalls the minutest event in his life with a lot of textures and a lot of details. Particularly, his memories of the time when he went to interview the Beatles and how all of them were spread across the room. It’s extremely fascinating. He gives you a lot of detail about what has happening to cinema in the 70s in both Bollywood as well as Hollywood. He tells you about his volatile relationship with his wife Protima Bedi, how they split and how they became friends again. There are very poignant passages about his children and very devastating chapter about Praveen Babi in Italy when he was there for the promotions of Sandokan.
His memory, his narrative that goes flash back, flash forward, its non-linear. He talks about his childhood earlier and parents later. The women come and go. So, it’s all very refreshing. For me it was very interesting because this is the time we were growing up, my generation of people. So, if you are somebody who is interested in the 70s and would like to know the details, I think you should go for the book. I like the beginning of the book where he says why he is writing this book and how everybody has a version to the story and this is his honest version. I think he has gone through a lot of effort and trouble and it all reflects in the book.
His memory, his narrative that goes flash back, flash forward, its non-linear. He talks about his childhood earlier and parents later. The women come and go. So, it’s all very refreshing. For me it was very interesting because this is the time we were growing up, my generation of people. So, if you are somebody who is interested in the 70s and would like to know the details, I think you should go for the book. I like the beginning of the book where he says why he is writing this book and how everybody has a version to the story and this is his honest version. I think he has gone through a lot of effort and trouble and it all reflects in the book.
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July 2, 2024Mr. Kabir Bedi has had quite a life, from the exposure to good education, literate parents who were also into spirituality, getting to interview The Beatles which didn't really much of element in it, entering into Bollywood or into open marriages, getting popular overseas....quite a run.
Makes one think how the rich educated class always has good opportunities whichever year it might be, while in the village poor people were too busy toiling and also making like 10 kids as due to malnutritions and diseases kids used to perish easily, if they survived that led to land being distributed among all the ten kids and thus the coming generation was doomed to be poor as well.
Other than that, I really felt bad for Parveen Bobby and Kabir's son, the latter committed suicide while the both were diagnosed with schizophrenia. Parveen Bobby, who had had a traumatic childhood along with being married off to a Pakistani dude who never returned but Parveen kept fearing his return and thus stopping herself from marrying to Kabir or anyone else. A tragic beauty eaten by the demons in the head, getting not much out of treatment her bfs Kabir and Mahesh Butt tried to get her. Mental illness is a bitch!! May she rest in peace!
Makes one think how the rich educated class always has good opportunities whichever year it might be, while in the village poor people were too busy toiling and also making like 10 kids as due to malnutritions and diseases kids used to perish easily, if they survived that led to land being distributed among all the ten kids and thus the coming generation was doomed to be poor as well.
Other than that, I really felt bad for Parveen Bobby and Kabir's son, the latter committed suicide while the both were diagnosed with schizophrenia. Parveen Bobby, who had had a traumatic childhood along with being married off to a Pakistani dude who never returned but Parveen kept fearing his return and thus stopping herself from marrying to Kabir or anyone else. A tragic beauty eaten by the demons in the head, getting not much out of treatment her bfs Kabir and Mahesh Butt tried to get her. Mental illness is a bitch!! May she rest in peace!
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