Neelima Azeem and Pankaj Kapur’s divorce remains one of the most discussed topics in Bollywood. In a candid interview, the actress addressed false assumptions about her failed marriages and lifestyle while stressing how online narratives often distort the truth. She also shared how, despite staying quiet, social media tries to defame her.
Neelima Azeem on getting trolled for her failed marriages
Speaking about the toxicity of social media, Neelima said in an interview with Zoom, “Just the other day, someone commented that ‘sharaab pee kar kya haal ho gaya hai (see what condition she is in due to drinking)’. I don’t even drink. Social media makes statements without any truth.”
Reacting to being blamed for her failed marriages, she said, “I married very simple men who had no money, but whom I thought were great people and very talented. I never married for material wealth or riches. I never sought a relationship in my life where they would build my career for me or invest money into my businesses; this is not my way of life. I did whatever I could in my capacity. I did theatre, TV, hosted shows, danced, and worked as an actress. I have 27 Best Actress awards, and I have worked with the finest actors, but I never talked about it or blew my own trumpet.”
She also added that if she doesn`t share her “own” side of the story, social media attempts to “defame” her. “I have come to a place where I must speak because if you don`t tell your truth, people suppress your voice and change your facts. As time passes, you realize that you are being defamed. What`s sad is that another woman is doing it. How do women do this to each other? I didn`t want to end my marriage, but when things happen, there is a reason. It`s very easy to blame the person,” she added.
About Neelima Azeem’s marriages
Neelima was first married to actor Pankaj Kapur, with whom she has a son, Shahid Kapoor. She later married Rajesh Khattar, and the couple welcomed Ishaan Khatter. Her third marriage was with Ustaad Raza Ali Khan.
Talking about Ishaan and Shahid, both actors are carving a niche for themselves in Bollywood. Ishaan’s film Homebound was recently shortlisted for Cannes Film Festival, where his performance was lauded. He is now gearing up for The Royals Season 2. Talking about Shahid, he is gearing up for the release of Cocktail 2 alongside Rashmika Mandanna and Kriti Sanon.