Veteran actress Asha Parekh, famed for her iconic roles opposite Dharmendra, remains a revered figure in the Hindi film industry. With a prolific career featuring over 85 films, she captivated audiences across India. Yet, her personal life, specifically her decision to stay unmarried, drew nearly as much attention as her cinematic achievements. Known for her independent spirit, Asha Parekh’s choices continue to be a source of intrigue and awe.
At the center of this narrative is Asha’s relationship with filmmaker Nasir Hussain. Their bond, formed on film sets, was profound yet constrained by societal norms, as Hussain was already married. In a candid interview with Verve magazine in 2019, Asha Parekh reflected on her choice to remain single. “Staying alone was probably one of the best decisions I made. I was in love with a married man and didn’t want to be a homewrecker. It was the only choice I had according to the way I wanted to live my life,” she disclosed. The actress firmly believed that time and circumstance dictate life’s course, a sentiment echoed in her reflections on her enduring solitary life.
Asha Parekh was clear about her unwillingness to let anyone control her. She remarked, “I would’ve never been able to take someone dictating terms to me — I was just not cut out for it.” This defiance stood as a testament to her fierce independence, suggesting that autonomy was central to her personal happiness.
Her near-marriage experience further illuminates her steadfast character. Asha once recounted a poignant moment with an American professor, with whom she almost considered tying the knot. “I did come very close to tying the knot once with a professor from the US,” she revealed. However, an unexpected revelation from him derailed any plans for a shared future. “I was visiting him and we were in a cafe at 2 a.m., when he turned to me and nonchalantly said, ‘I have a girlfriend and you’ve come in the way,’” she recounted. This incident was a turning point, reinforcing her resolve to cherish solitude over complicated relationships.
The influence of societal beliefs, such as astrology, also shaped her outlook on marriage. An astrologer once predicted that Asha Parekh would never marry. Faced with this prediction, she accepted a life unbound by matrimonial ties, choosing instead a path defined by self-reliance and personal satisfaction.
Asha Parekh’s decision not to marry—whether due to love unfulfilled or personal foresight—offers a profound look into her values. In a culture where marriage is often an expected milestone, her life choices stand out as a bold statement of self-determination. As an actress who shared the screen frequently with Dharmendra, known for his own vibrant on-screen charisma, Asha Parekh’s off-screen life was navigated with equal parts grace and resilience.
The impact of her choices extends beyond her personal narrative, offering inspiration to countless admirers who look to her as a symbol of strength and independence. As society increasingly recognizes diverse lifestyles and the acceptance of personal choices, Asha Parekh’s story resonates even more. Her life teaches us that the path of individuality, while potentially lonely, can also be fulfilling and empowering.
With a career underscored by notable performances and a personal life characterized by thoughtfulness and sage decisions, Asha Parekh leaves a legacy that challenges and inspires. Her influence goes beyond her roles or her collaborations with figures like Dharmendra, as she exemplifies living your truth, irrespective of societal expectations or pressures.
