Who is Neelam Kothari?
Neelam Kothari Soni is a veteran Bollywood actress, jewellery designer, and socialite. Rising to fame in the 1980s and 1990s, she became a popular face in Hindi cinema, known for her charming screen presence and successful pairing with actors like Govinda and Chunky Pandey. After her film career, she established herself as a respected jewellery designer, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics.
She is also recognized for her appearances in Netflix’s reality show Fabulous Lives of Bollywood Wives, where she showcases her personal style, lifestyle, and passion for art and design.
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Neelam Kothari Soni |
| Date of Birth | 9 November 1969 |
| Age (As of 2025) | 55 Years |
| Birthplace | Hong Kong, British Hong Kong |
| Current Residence | Mumbai, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Religion | Jain (Father), Mixed Heritage |
| Education | Schooling in Hong Kong & Mumbai |
| Profession | Actress (Former), Jewellery Designer, Entrepreneur |
| Known For | Bollywood films in the 1980s–90s, R Kothari Jewels, Netflix reality show |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Husband | Samir Soni |
| Children | Adopted Daughter – Ahana |
| Height | 5’6” (168 cm) |
| Weight | 55 kg |
| Instagram Handle | @neelamkotharisoni |
Neelam Kothari Early Life
Neelam Kothari was born on 9 November 1969 in British Hong Kong. She hails from a culturally rich family:
- Father: Shishir Kothari (Gujarati Jain)
- Mother: Parveen Kothari (of Iranian descent)
Neelam grew up surrounded by multicultural influences, which shaped her taste in fashion and aesthetics. She later moved to India to pursue her interests in the film industry and education.
Neelam Kothari Education
Neelam completed her early schooling in Hong Kong before relocating to Mumbai, India, to pursue higher education. Her academic background laid the foundation for her later ventures into jewellery design, where she combines technical knowledge with creative flair.
Neelam Kothari Family
Neelam Kothari comes from a supportive family that encouraged her artistic and professional pursuits.
- First Marriage: Rishi Sethia, a UK-based businessman (divorced)
- Second Marriage: Actor Samir Soni in 2011
- Children: Adopted daughter, Ahana, in 2013
She continues to maintain close ties with her family and is actively involved in philanthropic and social causes.
Neelam Kothari Career
1. Bollywood Career
Neelam began her acting career in 1984 with the film Jawaani. She quickly gained popularity through roles in romantic and family-oriented films. Some of her notable works include:
- Love 86 (1986)
- Ilzaam (1986)
- Khudgarz (1987)
- Aag Hi Aag (1987)
- Paap Ki Duniya (1988)
- Hum Saath-Saath Hain (1999)
She was especially recognized for her on-screen chemistry with Govinda, with whom she starred in several box-office hits. Her career peaked in the late 1980s and early 1990s, earning her a loyal fan following.
2. Jewellery Designing
After stepping back from full-time acting, Neelam pursued her passion for jewellery design. She studied jewellery design and founded her own boutique, Neelam Jewels, later expanding it to Neelam Kothari Fine Jewels.
Her designs are known for:
- Blending traditional Indian craftsmanship with contemporary styles
- Using precious gemstones and intricate detailing
- Catering to both celebrity and high-end clientele
Her entrepreneurial skills have established her as a respected figure in India’s luxury jewellery market.
3. Reality TV & Media
Neelam recently gained renewed public attention through Netflix’s Fabulous Lives of Bollywood Wives. She brings elegance, wit, and authenticity to the show, highlighting her refined lifestyle and personal choices.
Neelam Kothari Personal Life
Neelam Kothari has always maintained a balance between her professional career and personal life, opting for a low-profile and graceful approach despite her celebrity status.
Marriages and Relationships
- Neelam’s first marriage was to Rishi Sethia, a UK-based businessman. The marriage ended in divorce after a few years.
- In 2011, she married actor Samir Soni, known for his work in television and films. Their relationship has been marked by mutual respect and support, and the couple frequently shares moments of family life on social media.
Children
- Neelam and Samir Soni are parents to an adopted daughter, Ahana, whom they welcomed in 2013.
- She has often expressed that adoption has been one of the most fulfilling decisions in her life, highlighting her commitment to family and nurturing.
Lifestyle & Interests
- Neelam is known for her elegant and health-conscious lifestyle. She practices yoga and fitness routines to maintain her wellness and energy.
- She has a deep passion for jewellery, fashion, and design, which translates into her professional work and personal style.
- Apart from work, Neelam enjoys traveling, especially to destinations that inspire her jewellery designs and artistic pursuits.
Controversies
Neelam was named in the Blackbuck poaching case during the filming of Hum Saath-Saath Hain, but was acquitted. She has maintained a low-profile personal life and handled media scrutiny with poise and dignity.
Neelam Kothari Net Worth
| Source of Wealth | Details |
| Estimated Net Worth (2025) | ₹50-60 Crore (Approx.) |
| Primary Income Source | Jewellery Designing & Boutique Business |
| Other Income Sources | Acting, Brand Endorsements, Reality TV |
| Luxury Assets | Designer cars, high-end properties in Mumbai & Delhi |
| Notable Investments | Real estate, fine jewellery collections |
Neelam Kothari Social Media
| Platform | Handle | Followers (Approx.) |
| @neelamkotharisoni | 1.1M+ | |
| Neelam Kothari Soni | 57K+ | |
| Twitter (X) | @neelamkothari | 158K+ |
Neelam Kothari Physical Appearance
| Attribute | Details |
| Height | 5’6” (168 cm) |
| Weight | 55 kg (Approx.) |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Body Type | Slim & Elegant |
| Distinctive Style | Traditional fusion with modern elegance |
Interesting Facts about Neelam Kothari
- Neelam was born in Hong Kong and brought up in a multicultural environment.
- She became a prominent Bollywood actress without being from a film background.
- Her jewellery boutique is known for bespoke designs for celebrities and elite clientele.
- She adopted her daughter, Ahana, showing her commitment to family and philanthropy.
- She made a TV comeback through Fabulous Lives of Bollywood Wives, gaining appreciation for her elegance and authenticity.
- She has a strong influence on fashion trends among her fans and followers.
- Neelam maintains a health-conscious lifestyle, practicing yoga and fitness routines.
FAQs about Neelam Kothari
Q1. Who is Neelam Kothari?
Neelam Kothari is a former Bollywood actress, jewellery designer, and reality TV personality.
Q2. When was Neelam Kothari born?
She was born on 9 November 1969.
Q3. Who is Neelam Kothari married to?
She is married to actor Samir Soni.
Q4. Does Neelam Kothari have children?
Yes, she adopted a daughter named Ahana.
Q5. What is her jewellery brand called?
Her brand is called Neelam Kothari Fine Jewels.
Q6. Which reality show features Neelam Kothari?
She appears in Netflix’s Fabulous Lives of Bollywood Wives.
Q7. What is Neelam Kothari’s estimated net worth?
Her estimated net worth is ₹50-60 crore.
Q8. Was Neelam Kothari involved in any controversy?
She was named in the Blackbuck poaching case but was acquitted.
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