The glitz and drama of Fabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives Season 3 just hit a whole new level, thanks to Neelam Kothari’s candid revelations about her first marriage with Rishi Sethia. The popular actress, known for her iconic roles in films like Hum Saath Saath Hain and Agneepath, opened up about the challenges she faced during her first marriage in a heartfelt conversation with producer Ekta Kapoor.
Streaming now on Netflix, the third season has already made headlines, but Neelam’s latest disclosure added an extra spark to the show. During one of the episodes, the actress shared that her ex-husband, Rishi Sethia, insisted she “wear Indian clothes, give up non-veg, and stop drinking.” While Neelam was initially willing to adjust, she drew the line at completely losing her individuality. “I was fine with changing my name people do that. But changing my identity was something I couldn’t accept,” she admitted.
The journey wasn’t easy for the actress. Neelam recalled moments of self-doubt, questioning how she allowed herself to be in that situation. She even mentioned awkward encounters at supermarkets and restaurants, where people would approach her and ask if she was indeed the famous actress they remembered. “I would just deny it,” Neelam revealed, highlighting the internal struggle she faced.
Despite her efforts to make the relationship work, Neelam emphasized that no woman should have to sacrifice her identity for love. “It was tough, but I tried,” she said, adding that losing herself in the process wasn’t something she could live with.
The emotional moment deepened when Neelam shared how her daughter Ahana once asked about her divorce after friends discovered information online. In a conversation no mother looks forward to, Neelam opened up to Ahana, explaining her journey and the reasons behind the choices she made.
The third season of Fabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives premiered on October 18, featuring familiar faces like Seema Sajdeh, Maheep Kapoor, Bhavana Pandey, and Neelam herself, with exciting cameos by Riddhima Kapoor Sahni, Kalyani Saha Chawla, and Shalini Passi.
For those who don’t know, Neelam married Rishi Sethia in 2000, but their marriage ended soon after. She later found love again with actor Samir Soni, and the couple tied the knot in 2011. In 2013, they adopted their daughter, Ahana, completing their beautiful family.
With Neelam’s story, Fabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives Season 3 serves more than just gossip and glamour it reminds viewers that self-worth and identity should never be compromised, no matter the circumstances.
The show continues to stream on Netflix, dishing out more drama with every episode.
