Neliima Azeem: Kathak Princess, Birju Maharaj Disciple, Three Marriages, Unsettled Life

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News18•30-01-2026, 08:27
Neliima Azeem: Kathak Princess, Birju Maharaj Disciple, Three Marriages, Unsettled Life
- •Neliima Azeem, a renowned Kathak dancer and actress, was a disciple of Pandit Birju Maharaj and earned the title 'Kathak Princess' at 15.
- •Despite professional success, her personal life saw three marriages end in divorce: first to Pankaj Kapur, then Rajesh Khattar, and finally Raza Ali Khan.
- •She is the mother of Bollywood stars Shahid Kapoor (from her marriage to Pankaj Kapur) and Ishaan Khatter (from her marriage to Rajesh Khattar).
- •Neliima faced emotional challenges and anxiety due to her divorces but found strength and happiness in her sons' success.
- •Today, at 67, she remains active and considers her sons her greatest achievement, emphasizing their strong bond despite different fathers.
Why It Matters: Neliima Azeem, a Kathak virtuoso and actress, navigated a challenging personal life with three divorces, finding strength in her sons Shahid and Ishaan Kapoor's success.
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