No one was like her; Mumtaz was bold, beautiful, sexy, an exceptionally capable actress, as well as an accomplished dancer. She was not your typical Meek and Bechari heroine from Hindi films; she exuded fierceness, possessed unmatched energy, and had the courage to flaunt her sensuality in a way never seen before.
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Willum Skeener
Mumtaz, born as Mumtaz Askari on July 31, 1947, in Bombay, is a name that resonates with charm, vivacity, and an indomitable spirit that has captured the hearts of many across generations. Her parents were Abdul Salim Askari and Shadi Habib Agha, who were from Mashhad, Iran. Her parents divorced a year after her birth.
Her journey in the Hindi film industry is a proof of her resilience and talent, which saw her rise from the ranks of a ‘B-grade’ actress to one of the most sought-after leading ladies of her time. Mumtaz made her acting debut at the tender age of 11 with the 1958 film “Sone Ki Chidiya.”. She then acted in films like Talaq (1958) as a child artist, as well as in smaller roles in Stree (1961), Sehra (1962), and Mujhe Jeene Do (1963) as a young adult.
Her early years in the industry were full of struggle and perseverance. She tried hard to get films but couldn’t get significant roles early on. Her breakthrough came when she starred opposite stunt film star Dara Singh in the successful “Faulad (1963).”
Mumtaz, born as Mumtaz Askari on July 31, 1947, in Bombay, is a name that resonates with charm, vivacity, and an indomitable spirit that has captured the hearts of many across generations. Her parents were Abdul Salim Askari and Shadi Habib Agha, who were from Mashhad, Iran. Her parents divorced a year after her birth.
Her journey in the Hindi film industry is a proof of her resilience and talent, which saw her rise from the ranks of a ‘B-grade’ actress to one of the most sought-after leading ladies of her time. Mumtaz made her acting debut at the tender age of 11 with the 1958 film “Sone Ki Chidiya.”. She then acted in films like Talaq (1958) as a child artist, as well as in smaller roles in Stree (1961), Sehra (1962), and Mujhe Jeene Do (1963) as a young adult.
Her early years in the industry were full of struggle and perseverance. She tried hard to get films but couldn’t get significant roles early on. Her breakthrough came when she starred opposite stunt film star Dara Singh in the successful “Faulad (1963).”
While becoming the first lady of action and adventure films, she continued to do smaller roles in big budget films like Mere Sanam (1965), Khandan (1965), Kaajal (1965), Bahu Beti (1965), Yeh Raat Phir Na Aayegi (1966), Sawan Ki Ghata (1966), Pyar Kiye Jaa (1966), Suraj (1966), Chandan Ka Palna (1967), Patthar ke Sanam (1967), Hamraaz (1967), Gauri (1968), Brahmachari (1968), and Mere Hamdam Mere Dost (1968). Her initial roles in those films were limited, often overshadowed by more prominent stars.
However, her breakthrough came with the 1967 film “Ram Aur Shyam,” in which she starred opposite the legendary Dilip Kumar. This role paved the way for her successful career ahead. The same year, V. Shantaram cast her in his “Boond Jo Ban Gayee Moti,” opposite Jitendra. She also became famous for her dance through her numbers like “Tauba Ye Matwali Chal,” “Allah Yeh Ada Kaisi,” and “Aajkal Tere Mere Pyar Ke Charche.”
Yash Chopra’s “Aadmi Aur Insaan,” starring Dharmendra, Saira Banu, and Feroz Khan, earned her a Filmfare nomination for Best Supporting Actress in 1969.
In 1969, she starred opposite superstar Rajesh Khanna in Rajkhosla’s “Do Raaste,” which set the stage for a series of successful films. The on-screen pairing of Mumtaz and Rajesh Khanna is often cited as one of the most iconic and beloved in Indian cinema. Their chemistry was not just a mere pairing of two actors; it was a magical concoction that brought films to life and drew audiences into theatres.
The duo starred in a string of successful films, including “Bandhan” (1969), “Sachaa Jhutha” (1970), “Dushman (1971),” “Apna Desh” (1972), “Aap Ki Kasam(1974),” “Roti” (1974), and “Prem Kahani” (1975). Each film showcased their ability to portray a range of emotions, from playful romance to intense drama, with a naturalness that resonated with viewers.
One of Mumtaz’s most celebrated performances came in the 1970 film “Khilona,” where she portrayed a woman who pretends to be the wife of a mentally disturbed man. Her portrayal earned her critical acclaim and the Filmfare Award for Best Actress.
Mumtaz also shone in Dev Anand’s “Tere Mere Sapne” (1971), a film based on A.J. Cronin’s novel ‘The Citadel’. Her role as the supportive wife of a doctor trying to navigate his way through professional and ethical dilemmas was both impactful and endearing. She also paired with Dev Anand in Hare Rama Hare Krishna (1971).
One of her other significant pairings was with Feroz Khan, with whom she has done films like Mela (1971), Upaasna (1971), Apradh (1972), and Nagin (1976). Her performances in “Jheel Ke Us Paar, and “Loafer,” opposite Dharmendra, were also lauded and remembered for their authenticity.
Mumtaz’s filmography is diverse, showcasing her ability to adapt to various roles and genres. She delivered powerful performances in films like Pardesi (1970), Ek Nanhi Munni Ladki Thi (1970), Bhai Bhai (1970), Maa Aur Mamta (1970), Kathputli (1971), Shararat (1972), Gomti Ke Kinare (1972), Roop Tera Mastana (1972), Pyaar Ka Rishta (1973), Bandhe Haath (1973), Chor Machaye Shor (1974), and many more.
In 1977, her last film, Aaina, with Rajesh Khanna, was released; after that, she retired from films to focus on her family. In 1991, she made a comeback with “Andhiyan,” which was not well recieved.
Despite her success, Mumtaz never let fame get to her head. She remained grounded and focused on her craft, earning the respect of her peers and audiences alike. Her dedication to her roles, coupled with her natural acting ability, made her a favourite among directors and producers.
In 1974, at the peak of her career, Mumtaz decided to step away from the limelight, marrying businessman Mayur Madhvani. Her decision to prioritise her personal life over her career was met with surprise but also admiration for her bold choice. Together, they have two daughters, Natasha and Tanya. Natasha married actor Feroz Khan’s son, Fardeen Khan, in 2006.
Mumtaz’s life off-screen has been equally inspiring. She battled cancer with courage and emerged victorious, further solidifying her image as a fighter. Her strength in the face of adversity has been an inspiration to many who face similar challenges.
