Many leading Bollywood actresses from the 80s have been away from the limelight for years but their once upon a time fame still precedes them. One such actress is Neelam Kothari, who appeared in a slew of Hindi films in the late 80s and early 90s despite not speaking Hindi at that time. Married to film and TV actor Samir Soni, she was one of the Bollywood Wives in the Indian reality TV series Fabulous Lives of Bollywood Wives.
Neelam Kothari, born and brought up in Hong Kong, is from a Gujarati family. The family later moved to Bangkok when she was a teenager. Neelam’s entry into films was completely by chance. In the early 80s, she came to India along with friends for a vacation and was visiting Mumbai when she caught the eye of filmmaker Ramesh Bahl. He approached Neelam and offered her the lead role in a film that he was making. It is how the actress earned her debut with Jawaani in 1984.
Although Neelam’s debut film was not a commercial success, her performance caught the attention of many, leading to numerous offers. She gained popularity with her role in Ilzaam alongside newcomer Govinda. Neelam and Govinda formed a popular on-screen pair, starring together in 14 films. Some of their bigger hits include Love 86, Khudgarz, Hatya, and Taaqatwar. Neelam was also linked with Govinda during the late 80s with many tabloids carrying reports of their affair. However, none of the actors have ever admitted to having been in a relationship. Neelam became very famous among the 90s youth after appearing in the music video for the Hindi version of The Merrymen’s hit single Feeling Hot Hot Hot.
Neelam Kothari married Rishi Sethia, a well-known industrialist and London resident, in 2000. Their marriage lasted only two years and they divorced soon after. After a brief relationship with actor Samir Soni, she married him in 2011. In 2013, they adopted a daughter and named her Ahana.
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