Neelam Kothari Soni, known for her graceful charm in the ’90s, made a bold return to acting in 2023 with Made In Heaven Season 2, a show that not only brought her back to the screen but also challenged her in unexpected ways. While fans have seen her shine in Netflix’s Fabulous Lives of Bollywood Wives, Made In Heaven showcased a different side of Neelam as she took on her first on-screen kiss, and that too with her real-life husband, actor Samir Soni.
Speaking about this new chapter in her career, Neelam recalls her initial reaction when director Zoya Akhtar presented her with the script. “I’ve always been Miss Proper, with my necklines high and no exposure,” Neelam shares. “When Zoya told me there was a kissing scene, I hesitated, but then she said, ‘It’s with your husband,’ and I thought, if I’m going to do something bold, why not with Samir?”
Despite being married for years, Neelam admits that kissing on camera was still a daunting experience. “Before the scene, I actually asked Samir, ‘How do you kiss for the camera?’ He just laughed and said, ‘Don’t be ridiculous, you’re embarrassing me!’” she recalls with a smile.
The scene, which marked a significant milestone in Neelam’s career, was filmed in just two takes, thanks to the couple’s natural chemistry. Reflecting on the experience, Neelam says, “It was definitely out of my comfort zone, but I’m glad I trusted Zoya and took the leap.”
Released in 2023, Made In Heaven Season 2 has been praised for its bold storytelling and complex characters, and Neelam’s appearance has only added to the excitement. For fans, this marks a thrilling new phase in her journey, showcasing her versatility as an actor, decades after she first charmed audiences on the big screen.
