New Delhi: Historically, the Kapoor family upheld a tradition that discouraged women from entering the film industry. However, Karisma Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor Khan have notably defied this custom. Today, we focus on an actress who became a daughter-in-law to the Kapoor family and also shared romantic on-screen moments with her uncle-in-law.
The on-screen chemistry between this daughter-in-law and her father-in-law duo captivated audiences, particularly in the song “Kahun Doon Tumhein Ya Chup Rahun” from the 1975 film Deewar. The pair featured here are Shashi Kapoor, the youngest brother of Raj Kapoor, and Neetu Kapoor, the wife of Shashi’s nephew, Rishi Kapoor.
Neetu Kapoor and Shashi Kapoor appeared as a couple in Deewar. Five years later, in 1980, Rishi Kapoor married Neetu, and together they starred in more than ten films. Their relationship evolved during this period, leading to the birth of their son, Ranbir Kapoor, a prominent figure in Bollywood. Neetu reportedly put her career on hold for their marriage and was aware of Rishi Kapoor’s alleged extramarital affairs.
In an interview, Neetu discussed her awareness of Rishi’s relationships with other actresses, stating that she understood his nature and knew he often flirted. Although their marriage faced challenges, including conflicts over Rishi’s behavior, she maintained that he was entirely reliant on her and loved no one else.
Neetu’s last appearance as an actress was in the 1983 film Ganga Meri Maa. After 26 years of marriage, she returned to the film industry following Rishi Kapoor’s death on April 30, 2020, at the age of 67 due to illness.