Angad Bedi, Pink, Bishan Singh Bedi, Taapsee Pannu, Cricket: A Story of Sacrifice and Reconciliation

Angad Bedi, a well-known Bollywood actor and former model, has had a career marked by significant milestones and personal sacrifices. One of the most poignant stories from his life involves his late father, Bishan Singh Bedi, a legendary cricketer who captained the Indian cricket team. Angad’s decision to cut his hair for a film role led to a rift between him and his father that lasted for nearly two decades. This article delves into the intricate details of this father-son relationship, the sacrifices made by Angad for his career, and how the success of the film ‘Pink’ eventually brought them closer.

Angad Bedi made his debut in Bollywood with the film ‘Kaya Taran’ in 2004. Over the years, he has appeared in several notable films such as ‘F.A.L.T.U’, ‘Dear Zindagi’, ‘Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl’, and ‘Tiger Zinda Hai’. However, it was his role in the 2016 film ‘Pink’ that truly catapulted him to fame. Directed by Shoojit Sircar, ‘Pink’ featured Angad in an antagonistic role alongside Amitabh Bachchan and Taapsee Pannu. The film’s critical and commercial success was a turning point in Angad’s career, but it also played a crucial role in mending his strained relationship with his father.

The story begins when Angad was 19 years old and just starting his career in Bollywood. He was advised by industry insiders that his long hair would not work for him in the film industry. Taking this advice to heart, Angad made the difficult decision to chop off his hair. This decision did not sit well with his father, Bishan Singh Bedi, who was deeply hurt and disturbed by his son’s new look. Bishan Singh Bedi, known for his outspoken views on cricketing issues, was also a man of tradition and values. Angad’s decision to cut his hair went against the family’s customs and beliefs, leading to a prolonged period of silence between the father and son.

In a conversation with Cyrus Broacha on his podcast, Angad recalled how his father reacted to his new hairstyle. Bishan Singh Bedi was not just angry; he was deeply hurt, which is a much more profound emotion. The rift between them lasted for almost 20 years, during which they did not speak to each other. Angad continued to pursue his career in Bollywood, facing numerous challenges and working hard to make a name for himself. Despite the personal turmoil, he remained focused on his professional goals.

The release of ‘Pink’ in 2016 marked a significant turning point in Angad’s life. The film’s success brought him critical acclaim and recognition in the industry. More importantly, it served as a catalyst for reconciliation with his father. After watching Angad’s performance in ‘Pink’, Bishan Singh Bedi was impressed and moved. He finally spoke to Angad, asking him to justify his haircut. Angad explained that he had to make certain sacrifices to succeed in the industry. His father, seeing the dedication and hard work his son had put into his career, gave him his blessings and advised him to choose his future films wisely.

Angad’s journey from being a young actor struggling to find his footing in Bollywood to becoming a successful actor with critically acclaimed roles is a testament to his resilience and determination. The incident with his father highlights the sacrifices actors often have to make for their roles and careers. It also underscores the importance of understanding and support from family members, especially in the face of unconventional career choices.

Despite the initial rift, Angad has always been proud of his heritage as a Bedi, a direct descendant of Guru Nanak. He has spoken about the pride and responsibility that comes with being part of such a prestigious lineage. The reconciliation with his father after the success of ‘Pink’ was a moment of immense emotional significance for Angad. It was a validation of his choices and efforts, and it brought a sense of closure to the long-standing issue between them.

Angad’s story is not just about the sacrifices made for a career in acting; it is also about the deep bond between a father and son. Bishan Singh Bedi’s initial reaction to Angad’s haircut was rooted in love and concern for his son. His eventual acceptance and support after seeing Angad’s success in ‘Pink’ demonstrate the unconditional love and pride that parents have for their children, even when they do not fully understand their choices.

In addition to his work in films, Angad has also appeared in popular web series like ‘Inside Edge’ and ‘Soorma’. His versatility as an actor has earned him a dedicated fan base and respect within the industry. Angad continues to take on challenging roles and projects, further establishing himself as a talented and committed actor.

Angad’s personal life has also been in the spotlight, particularly his marriage to actress and model Neha Dhupia. The couple, who tied the knot in 2018, have two children together. Angad and Neha are often seen sharing glimpses of their family life on social media, showcasing their strong bond and love for each other. The couple’s relationship has been an example of mutual support and understanding, both personally and professionally.

Sadly, Bishan Singh Bedi passed away in 2023 after a prolonged illness. His death was a significant loss for Angad and the entire cricketing community. Bishan Singh Bedi’s legacy as a cricketer and his impact on the sport will always be remembered. For Angad, his father’s passing was a moment of reflection on the journey they had shared, the challenges they had overcome, and the love that ultimately brought them back together.

As Angad continues to navigate his career in Bollywood, he carries with him the lessons learned from his father and the experiences that have shaped him. His story is a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance, the value of family support, and the impact of personal sacrifices on professional success. Angad’s journey, marked by both triumphs and tribulations, serves as an inspiration to many aspiring actors and individuals striving to achieve their dreams.