TRIGGER WARNING: This article contains references to alcohol and drug addiction.Prateik Babbar has never shied away from speaking about his battle with drug addiction. In one of his most candid interviews, the actor looked back at a painful chapter of his life and clarified a misconception that had followed him for years. Contrary to popular belief, Prateik revealed that his substance abuse began long before he entered the film industry or experienced fame. Known for his performances in films such as ‘Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na’ and ‘Dhobi Ghat’, the actor shared that his struggles started during his childhood and were rooted in personal trauma rather than the pressures of stardom.Addressing the rumours, Prateik explained that his addiction had nothing to do with success in Bollywood. Instead, he pointed to the circumstances of his upbringing as the reason behind his early exposure to drugs.In an old interview with Bollywood Bubble, the actor revealed, “I just want to say that people think, ‘Oh, he entered films, got fame and money, and then started taking drugs.’ No, that’s not true. My drug use began when I was thirteen years old, even before I turned twelve. Yes, I was terrified. So, it wasn’t because of the film industry. Unfortunately, I had a different kind of upbringing, and my family situation was a bit complicated. That’s why I started using drugs. It’s not that fame and money in films led me to it. I had already started using drugs then.”The actor, who is the son of late actress Smita Patil and veteran actor Raj Babbar, said that his childhood experiences had a lasting impact on his life.
Prateik Babbar on healing from years of trauma
Prateik also spoke about the emotional scars that continued to affect him even after overcoming addiction. According to him, unresolved trauma influences many aspects of life, including personal relationships. “Drugs are associated with trauma, you understand. As long as that trauma isn’t released, it will continue to impact relationships and other areas of life. But there comes a time when you have to work to make things better, which I’ve been doing for many years.” His remarks highlighted the importance of addressing emotional wounds instead of focusing only on addiction itself.The actor also credited actress Priya Banerjee, who was his fiancée at the time, for standing by him and supporting his journey towards becoming a better person.“My fiancée has been helping me improve in many ways. We’re helping each other grow, though she doesn’t need any improvement. She’s perfect! That’s life, you know; you have to move on.” Their relationship, he said, became a source of encouragement as both continued to support each other’s personal growth.
More about Prateik Babbar
Prateik Babbar has been in the news in recent times after dropping his father Raj Babbar’s surname in favour of his late mother Smita Patil’s name. The actor also made headlines for addressing his father’s absence from his wedding to Priya Banerjee and responding to comments made by his half-brother Arya Babbar. Amid the buzz, here’s a throwback to one of his most candid interviews.DISCLAIMER: If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol or substance abuse, please seek help from available helplines or support organizations.
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