In today’s edition of ‘Meet the Actor,’ we spotlight a woman who may not officially hold a royal title but embodies grace, intellect, and legacy in equal measure — Soha Ali Khan. Born into the illustrious Pataudi family, Soha is the daughter of former Indian cricket captain Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi and veteran actress Sharmila Tagore. As the daughter of the 9th Nawab of Pataudi, Soha would have technically been a princess had royal titles not been abolished in India. Nevertheless, her upbringing was steeped in heritage, culture, and achievement.
Unlike many star kids who step directly into cinema, Soha first prioritized academics. She graduated from the prestigious University of Oxford and later earned a master’s degree in International Relations from the London School of Economics and Political Science. With such impressive credentials, she initially chose a conventional professional path, taking up a job in banking. Reportedly, she earned an annual salary of approximately INR 2,20,000 at the time — a modest beginning considering her royal lineage and the immense wealth associated with the Pataudi family.
However, destiny had other plans. Drawn toward the creative arts, much like her mother, Soha eventually left her banking career to enter the film industry. She made her acting debut in 2004 with the Bengali film Iti Srikanta. The same year, she stepped into Bollywood with Dil Maange More, starring opposite Shahid Kapoor. While her initial films garnered moderate attention, her breakthrough performance came with the critically acclaimed action-drama Rang De Basanti. Sharing screen space with Aamir Khan, Siddharth, Atul Kulkarni, Sharman Joshi, Kunal Kapoor, and R. Madhavan, Soha earned recognition for her impactful portrayal in the ensemble cast film.
Over the years, she continued to explore diverse roles in films such as Tum Mile, Saheb, Biwi Aur Gangster Returns, Ghayal: Once Again, and Saheb, Biwi Aur Gangster 3. She also featured in the award-winning short film Soundproof, showcasing her ability to adapt across formats. Most recently, she impressed audiences with her chilling performance in Chhorii 2, directed by Vishal Furia, alongside Nushrratt Bharuccha.
Beyond acting, Soha has demonstrated her literary flair. In 2017, she authored her memoir, The Perils of Being Moderately Famous. The book, a witty and candid reflection on her life in a famous yet unconventional family, was well received by readers and critics alike. It revealed a thoughtful, humorous side of Soha and cemented her reputation as more than just a celebrity — she is also a sharp observer and storyteller.
On the personal front, Soha belongs to one of India’s most talked-about families. She is the sister of actor Saif Ali Khan, who was recognized as the 10th Nawab of Pataudi at birth. Through him, she is also the sister-in-law of actress Kareena Kapoor Khan. Soha herself is married to actor Kunal Kemmu, her co-star from 99. The couple shares a daughter, Inaaya Naumi Kemmu, and often gives fans glimpses into their family life.
Balancing royalty, academics, cinema, and literature, Soha Ali Khan continues to carve her own identity — one defined not just by lineage, but by talent and intellect.