Would Mumtaz make a Career Comeback?

Mumtaz remains one of the most acclaimed actresses of the yesteryears of Indian cinema.

She began her career as an actress at the age of 14. In 1958, she made her debut in Sone Ki Chidiya.

After a few scattered roles in the late 1950s and early 1960s, the actress gained recognition in Ram Aur Shyam (1967).

In this film, she appeared alongside the acting legend Dilip Kumar.

The following year, in 1968, she starred opposite Shammi Kapoor in Brahmachari. 

In Brahmachari, she became known for her dance in the song, ‘Aaj Kal Tere Mere Pyaar Ke Charche‘, where she was clad in a famous orange saree.

In 1969, Mumtaz appeared in Do Raaste, marking the first of many successful films she did with Rajesh Khanna.

The pair went on to star together in movies including Apna Desh (1972), Aap Ki Kasam (1974), and Roti (1974).

In 1971, she played a pivotal role in Dev Anand’s Hare Rama Hare Krishna. 

For her role in Khilona (1970), Mumtaz won the Filmfare ‘Best Actress’ award in 1971.

The star made her final film appearance in Aaina (1977), before making a one-off return to the big screen in Aandhiyan (1990).

Mumtaz recently opened up about returning to Bollywood.

She said: “I was a mere child when I began acting. It was not an easy journey. But I made it to the top.

“When I quit to get married, I was the highest-paid actress of Indian cinema.”

The veteran actress also divulged that she was offered a role in Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar (2024).

She continued: “I was offered Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Heeramandi. But I said no to that.

“The money being offered was a pittance. Why would I work for so little money when I have everything I need and more?

“[My comeback] should be something that would not disappoint my fans.”

“Even today, when I go out on the streets, people recognise me in every part of the world.

“That’s because I have maintained myself. I do regular exercise. I don’t eat after sunset, and I don’t stuff myself during meals.

“Most importantly, I don’t think negative thoughts. I don’t have any complaints against anyone.

“All my dreams have come true.”

Mumtaz previously revealed that she had fallen in love with her Brahmachari co-star Shammi Kapoor.

However, the relationship ended when the latter told her she could not work after marriage.

The actress married Mayur Madhvani in 1974 and has two children.