Neetu Singh, also known as Neetu Kapoor, is a name that resonates with grace, talent, and timeless charm in Indian cinema. From her early days as a child artist to becoming one of the most beloved Indian actresses of the 1970s and 1980s, her journey is nothing short of inspiring.
This blog post explores her life, career, family, and legacy in detail, offering a complete profile of this iconic actress and model.
Early Life and Upbringing
Neetu Singh was born as Harneet Kaur on 8 July 1958 in New Delhi, India, into a Punjabi Sikh family. Her parents were Darshan Singh and Rajee Kaur Singh. She lost her father at a young age, which led her mother to raise her as a single parent.
Neetu began her education at Hill Grange High School in Mumbai. However, her entry into the world of entertainment came early. She was spotted by actress Vyjayanthimala, who introduced her to films. Neetu made her debut as a child artist under the screen name Baby Sonia.
Personal Life – Age, Zodiac Sign
| Personal Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Harneet Kaur |
| Nickname | Baby Sonia |
| Alternative Names(s) | Neetu Kapoor, Sonia Singh |
| Date of Birth | 8 July 1958 |
| Age (as of 2024) | 66 years |
| Religion | Sikhism |
| Zodiac Sign | Cancer |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Birthplace | New Delhi, India |
| Hometown | Delhi |
| Current Address | Krishna Raj, Bandra (West), Mumbai |
| Education Qualification | High School Graduate |
| Hobbies and Interests | Cooking, Gymming, Meditation |
| Languages Known | Hindi, English, Punjabi |
| Social Media Profiles link | Facebook, Instagram, |
| Wikipedia Profile link | Neetu Singh – Wikipedia |
| IMDb Profile link | Neetu Singh – IMDb |
| Website link | N/A |
Physical Appearance – Height, Weight, Body Measurements
| Physical Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Body Type | Slim |
| Body Measurements (Chest-Waist-Hips) | 34-25-35 |
| Height in feet, inches, cm | 5’5″, 165 cm |
| Weight in lbs, kg | 119 lbs, 54 kg |
| Chest | 34 inches |
| Waist | 25 inches |
| Biceps | N/A |
| Eye Colour | Dark Brown |
| Hair Colour | Black |
| Hairstyle | Short, layered |
| Distinctive Features | Graceful smile |
| Tattoos | N/A |
Family and Relationships – Boyfriend/Husband, Affairs
Neetu Singh’s personal life has always been in the spotlight, especially her relationship with the legendary actor Rishi Kapoor.
- Spouse: Rishi Kapoor (married in 1980, until his death in 2020)
- Children:
- Riddhima Kapoor Sahni (Fashion Designer)
- Ranbir Kapoor (Bollywood Actor)
- Parents: Darshan Singh (father), Rajee Kaur Singh (mother)
- Grandchild: Raha Kapoor (through Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt)
Neetu and Rishi Kapoor were one of Bollywood’s most adored couples. Their on-screen chemistry translated into a real-life romance that lasted decades.
| Relationships Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Marital Status | Marid |
| Spouse – Husband | Rishi Kapoor |
| Father | Darshan Singh |
| Mother | Rajee Kaur |
| Children | Ranbir Kapoor, Riddhima Sahni |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Affairs – Boyfriend(s) | Rishi Kapoor |
| Significant Relationships | Rishi Kapoor romance |
Rise to Stardom
Neetu Singh began her acting career at the age of 6 in the film Suraj (1966). She gained popularity with her dual role in Do Kaliyaan (1968). Her transition to adult roles began with Rickshawala (1973).
Her breakthrough came with Yaadon Ki Baaraat (1973), where she appeared in the iconic song Lekar Hum Deewana Dil. This marked the beginning of her rise as a leading lady in Hindi cinema.
She starred in several box office hits alongside Rishi Kapoor, including:
- Khel Khel Mein (1975)
- Kabhi Kabhie (1976)
- Amar Akbar Anthony (1977)
- Kaala Patthar (1979)
Neetu Singh – Selfie
Neetu Singh – Debut Film – Suraj
Neetu Singh – Successful Film – Deewaar
Career, Awards, and Achievements
Neetu Singh’s career spans over five decades, with a break in between to focus on her family. She returned to films in the 2000s and impressed audiences once again.
- Started as a child artist in 1966
- Transitioned to lead roles in the 1970s
- Paired in over 12 films with Rishi Kapoor
- Made a comeback with Love Aaj Kal (2009) and Do Dooni Chaar (2010)
- Zee Cine Award for Best Lifetime Jodi (with Rishi Kapoor)
- Stardust Award for Best Actress – Do Dooni Chaar
- Global Film Award – Best Actress Critics
- Filmfare Nomination – Best Supporting Actress (Kaala Patthar)
- Inducted into Walk of the Stars, Bandra Bandstand, Mumbai
| Career Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Profession(s) | Actress |
| Debut Film | Suraj (1966) |
| Notable Roles | Kabhi Kabhie, Deewaar, Amar Akbar Anthony, Kaala Patthar, Yaarana |
| Recent Films – New Movies | Jugjugg Jeeyo, Besharam, Do Dooni Chaar |
| Upcoming Films | Letters to Mr Khanna, Dining with the Kapoors, 3 DKS |
| Popular Television Series | Koffee with Karan, The Kapil Sharma Show, Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa |
| Awards and Achievements | Zee Cine Lifetime Jodi, Stardust Best Actress, Filmfare Nominations |
| Endorsements/Brand Collaborations | N/A |
| Philanthropy/Charity Work | Sini Foundation, Women empowerment, Artisan training |
| Professional Associations | FDCI, Ministry of Textiles |
| Training and Education | Hill Grange High School, Mumbai |
| Production Company | SINI Designs |
| Box Office Success – Hit Movies | Jugjugg Jeeyo, Amar Akbar Anthony, Kabhi Kabhie |
| Critical Acclaim Movies | Do Dooni Chaar, Kaala Patthar, Kabhi Kabhie, Deewaar |
Assets and Finances – Net Worth
| Financial Profile | Information |
|---|---|
| Net Worth in Dollars | $245 million |
| Per Movie Charges in Dollars | $500,000 – $1.25 million |
| Per Endorsement Charges in Dollars | N/A |
| Sponsorship Deals | CoverGirl, Pure Wondersingh Vodka, Neetu Singh Seduction |
| Business Ventures (list) | SINI Designs, SINI Lifestyle, SINI Jewels, SINI Foundation |
| Investments (list) | Stock market, Real estate, Fashion exports, Restaurants |
| Real Estate Holdings | Krishna Raj Bungalow, Mumbai; Properties in Delhi |
| Luxury Items/Properties Owned | Designer jewelry, Rajputi couture, Maybach SUV, Heritage collectibles |
| Cars Collection | Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600, Mitsubishi Pajero, Hyundai Santro |
Favorite Things, Likes and Dislikes
| Favorite Things | Information |
|---|---|
| Favorite Actor | Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Ranbir Kapoor |
| Favorite Actress | Rani Mukerji |
| Favorite Film | Kabhi Kabhie |
| Favorite Music Bands | R.D. Burman classics |
| Favorite Sport | Cricket |
| Favorite Books | English for General Competitions, Plinth to Paramount |
| Favorite Colour | Black, Blue |
| Favorite Food | Japanese, Lebanese cuisine |
| Things s/he like | Cooking, Gymming, Meditation |
| Things s/he dislike | Excess sugar, Oily food |
Top 5 Best Films – Neetu Singh
| Film Name | Year of Release | Character Played |
|---|---|---|
| Deewaar | 1975 | Shanti |
| Khel Khel Mein | 1975 | Nisha |
| Kabhi Kabhie | 1976 | Pinky Kapoor |
| Amar Akbar Anthony | 1977 | Dr. Salma Ali |
| Kaala Patthar | 1979 | Channo |
Controversies – Neetu Singh
- Filed a police complaint against Rishi Kapoor in 1997 for alleged domestic violence; later denied the claims.
- Rumors of secret engagement with Rishi Kapoor before their official wedding.
- Criticized for retiring early from films post-marriage, sparking debates on women in cinema.
- Media speculations about strained relations with in-laws, later proven false.
- Public scrutiny over her comeback roles and comparisons with younger actresses.
Interesting Facts – Neetu Singh
- Started acting at age 6 and was credited as Baby Sonia.
- Changed her name from Harneet Kaur to Neetu Singh for her film career.
- Her mother acted alongside her in Rani Aur Lalpari (1975).
- She was only 15 when she played a lead role in Rickshawala.
- She worked as a costume designer in several films during her break from acting.
- Her handprint is preserved at the Walk of the Stars in Mumbai.
Neetu Singh’s journey from a child artist to a celebrated Indian actress and model is a testament to her talent, resilience, and charm. Her contributions to Indian cinema, both past and present, continue to inspire generations of actors and fans alike.
Whether it is her iconic roles, her graceful presence, or her enduring legacy as part of the Kapoor family, Neetu Singh remains a beloved figure in the world of entertainment.
