Four decades after her separation from actor Pankaj Kapur, veteran actress Neelima Azeem has spoken candidly about her life's journey, expressing no regrets about the past. Her divorce in 1984, when her now-famous son Shahid Kapoor was merely three years old, marked the beginning of a new chapter that eventually led to a second marriage and another celebrated actor son, Ishaan Khatter.
The Fateful Meeting on Set
In a recent interview, Neelima Azeem revisited the origins of her relationship with her second husband, actor Rajesh Khatter. She revealed that their paths first crossed on the sets of the television series 'Phir Vahi Talash'. Rajesh Khatter was brought into the show later to play the character of Captain Salim.
"We actually sat together and rehearsed together and he auditioned for it," Neelima recalled. She also shared a fascinating Bollywood trivia: several actors, including a young Shah Rukh Khan, had auditioned for that same role. The makers, however, felt Shah Rukh Khan looked too young for the part of an army captain.
Neelima described their initial bond as a strong professional rapport that blossomed over time. "We were friends for a very long time. There was a very good working repo and later, it slowly moved into a relationship," she explained.
A Blended Family of Stars
Following her divorce from Pankaj Kapur, Neelima married Rajesh Khatter. Their union brought son Ishaan Khatter into the world, completing a family now renowned in Indian cinema. Pankaj Kapur is celebrated as a acting legend, while both sons have carved impressive niches for themselves.
Shahid Kapoor, Neelima's son with Pankaj Kapur, continues to be a leading man in Bollywood. He recently headlined the 2025 release 'Deva' and has exciting projects like 'O' Romeo' and 'Cocktail 2' in the pipeline. On the personal front, Shahid is married to Mira Kapoor and is a father to two children, Misha and Zain.
Ishaan Khatter, her son with Rajesh Khatter, has also made a significant mark. He received acclaim for his performance in 'Homebound' and the series 'The Royals'. Reports suggest he is currently dating Malaysian model Chandni Bainz.
Cherishing the Journey Without Regret
Looking back at the pivotal decision to part ways with Pankaj Kapur 40 years ago, Neelima Azeem holds no bitterness. Her focus remains on the joy her family brings her. She cherishes every moment with her accomplished sons and reflects on her life's path with contentment.
The story of Neelima Azeem's family is a testament to how personal chapters can evolve, leading to new beginnings and collective success in the public eye. From the audition room of a TV series to the pinnacle of Bollywood fame, their narrative continues to inspire.
