Another Parveen in Bedi's life!

Kabir Bedi, who was once in a serious relationship with troubled actress Parveen Babi, now has her namesake in his life.

Bedi is currently dating a London-based Indian called Parveen Dusanj, who is a social researcher.

In 2005, the 60-plus actor divorced his third wife, television and radio presenter Nikki Bedi, best remembered here for her controversial chat show Nikki Tonight.

Instant connection

Bedi and new love Parveen were spotted together at the recent IIFA Awards in Yorkshire. When we called Parveen to ask her about the actor, she excused herself with, "I would prefer if you talk to Kabir instead."

Meanwhile, Kabir says he met Parveen at London's West End theatre when he was working on the play, The Far Pavilions. "We were introduced by common friends and clicked. The rest, as they say, is history. Parveen has been in my life since the past 18 months," he reveals.

The actor, who was earlier married to Odissi dancer Protima Bedi and fashion designer Susan Humphreys, says he split up with Nikki about two-and-half years ago but is uncomfortable talking about what led to the parting.

He says, "I wouldn't like to dwell on why Nikki and I went our separate ways. We are still friends, though. Nikki has her own life and career and I have my own. I will speak about this in detail when I come to India next (July 12)."

Amicable divorce

A source close to Bedi's family tells us that Kabir and Nikki's relationship failed because they weren't on the same wavelength after a point. "Both were constantly travelling for work and the relationship soon became a long distance one.

They decided it was better to part ways than to quarrel for the rest of their lives. They divorced amicably and continue to remain close," says the family friend.

Now, Kabir is happy to have found love again. "He spends a lot of time in Italy thanks to work commitments and Parveen frequently travels with him.

They've often been spotted on the London party circuit, and friends in London and Italy know they are a couple. Last week, they were at IIFA together.

However, Kabir doesn't like talking about the fact that he has another Parveen in his life," the source adds.

Pooja Bedi, who has always been a great support to her father, says she is friends with his new love. "Parveen is young, beautiful and intelligent.

I've spent lots of time with her and she is a wonderful person. My dad and Parveen look very good together," she says.

Tushar Joshi
tushar.joshi@mid-day.com

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