Ishaan Khatter Reflects on Resilient Upbringing and Shines in Netflix’s ‘The Royals’

Actor credits mother Neelima Azeem’s strength in raising him and brother Shahid Kapoor; captivates audiences with his role in the romantic comedy series.

Ishaan Khatter, acclaimed for his recent performance in Netflix’s romantic comedy series The Royals, has candidly discussed his upbringing and the influential role of his mother, Neelima Azeem. In a heartfelt interview with News18, Khatter praised Azeem’s resilience, stating, “All I’ve known is a woman with agency. I’ve seen her balance life. She single-handedly not just brought the bread home but also raised two boys.”

Azeem, an accomplished actress, raised Ishaan and his half-brother, actor Shahid Kapoor, largely on her own following her divorces from Pankaj Kapur and Rajesh Khattar. Khatter emphasized the positive impact of his mother’s strength and independence on his perspective, particularly regarding strong women.

In The Royals, Khatter portrays Aviraaj Singh, a carefree prince whose life intertwines with that of Sophia Shekhar, a determined CEO played by Bhumi Pednekar. The series explores themes of love, ambition, and the clash of traditional and modern values. While the show has received mixed reviews, Khatter’s performance has been highlighted as a standout, with critics noting his charm and on-screen presence.

Reflecting on his personal life, Khatter shared anecdotes about his close bond with Kapoor, who played a significant role during his childhood, even changing his diapers. He also expressed affection for his niece and nephew, describing them as intellectually and emotionally intelligent.

Looking ahead, Khatter is set to appear in the upcoming film Pippa, directed by Raja Menon, where he will portray Brigadier Balram Singh Mehta, a hero of the 1971 Indo-Pakistan war.