Shabana-Javed wanted to adopt me after mother’s death: Prateik
The Bollywood industry has always been filled with stories of love, drama, and unexpected twists. One such tale that has recently resurfaced is the adoption plan that veteran actress Shabana Azmi and screenwriter-lyricist Javed Akhtar had for actor Prateik Babbar after his mother, the legendary actress Smita Patil, passed away in 1986. In an interview, Prateik revealed that Shabana and Javed had expressed their desire to adopt him, which would have made him the step-brother of Farhan Akhtar.
Smita Patil, a highly acclaimed actress, was known for her versatility and dedication to her craft. She had worked in numerous films throughout her career, including “Chipkoo”, “Bhavni Bhavai”, and “Mirch Masala”. Her untimely death left a void in the industry, and her son Prateik was left to navigate the complexities of growing up without a mother.
Prateik, who is now an established actor in his own right, has spoken about the difficult times he faced after his mother’s passing. In an interview with The Indian Express, he revealed that Shabana Azmi and Javed Akhtar had approached him with the idea of adoption. “I could’ve been Farhan Akhtar’s step-brother,” Prateik joked, adding, “If this would’ve happened, I don’t know what kind of a life I’d be leading now.”
Shabana Azmi and Javed Akhtar were not only close friends of Smita Patil but also professional rivals. They were part of the same film industry and had worked together on several projects. Shabana Azmi was known for her strong performances in films like “Ankur”, “Aakrosh”, and “Mandi”, while Javed Akhtar was a renowned lyricist and screenwriter, responsible for some of the most iconic songs in Bollywood history.
Despite their professional rivalry, Shabana and Javed, who were also married, had a deep affection for Smita Patil and her son. Prateik credits them for their kindness and generosity, saying that they played a significant role in his upbringing. “Shabana and Javed took me under their wing and gave me a sense of belonging. They became like a family to me,” he said.
The adoption plan may not have materialized, but it highlights the strong bond that Shabana, Javed, and Smita shared. The three actors were part of the same film industry, and their friendship was built on a foundation of mutual respect and admiration.
Prateik’s revelation has also sparked curiosity about what could have been if the adoption plan had gone through. Would he have followed in the footsteps of his mother and become an actress? Or would he have pursued a different path altogether? The possibilities are endless, and fans of the three actors can only imagine what could have been.
In the end, Prateik’s story is a testament to the power of friendship and the kindness of strangers. Despite the ups and downs he faced after his mother’s death, he was fortunate to have had Shabana and Javed in his life, who helped him navigate the challenges of growing up without a mother.
As Prateik reflected on the adoption plan, he couldn’t help but wonder what kind of life he would be leading now if it had gone through. But he is quick to point out that his mother’s legacy lives on through him, and he is proud to carry on her legacy in the film industry.
