When 'Penniless' Helen Divorced Her First Husband PN Arora At 35

Veteran dance artist Helen has left an everlasting impact on Indian cinema with her dancing skills. She made her debut in Bollywood as a background dancer in the 1951 film Awaara. However, it was the 1958 classic Howrah Bridge that propelled her to stardom.

Despite attaining accomplishments professionally, Helen’s personal life was filled with difficulties. She got married to the producer and director Prem Narayan Arora, 27 years older than her. The Yeh Mera Dil Pyaar ka Deewana dance artist was only 19 at the time of the wedding. Irrespective of the age difference, they got married in 1957, but this marriage lasted for only 16 years. It ended when Helen was 35.

According to the reports, PN Arora was accused of wasting Helen’s money. He had taken the custody of Helen’s entire wealth into his name. Due to this reason, reports pointed out that the veteran dancer was left completely penniless. According to the reports, the Yeh Mera Dil Pyaar ka Deewana artist was left with no resources to pay the house rent as well. Due to this, Helen had to reportedly give up her house. These circumstances prompted the dancer to reportedly divorce PN Arora.

Reportedly, in 1973, PN Arora was making a film titled Karisma with actor and Kareena Kapoor’s father Randhir Kapoor and Sulakshana Pandit. Reportedly, the producer-director died suddenly just 3 months after the shooting of the film commenced. PN Arora’s death reason is not available in the public domain.

At this crucial time, it was the scriptwriter Salim Khan who came forward for Helen’s help. He played a pivotal role in securing several films for Helen. This led to a strong professional relationship between them which eventually blossomed into a romantic connection. At that time, Salim Khan was already married to Sushila Charak, also known as Salma Khan. Helen shifted with them and became an important part of their lives. In 1981, Helen married Salim Khan.

Helen is known for her dancing prowess in the songs Kar Le Pyar Kar Le, Is Duniya Mein Jeena Ho To, Yeh Mera Dil Pyaar ka Deewana, Mera Naam Chin Chin Chu, etc.