Veteran Bollywood actor Mumtaz has publicly addressed the separation of her daughter, Natasha Madhvani, from actor Fardeen Khan. While confirming their split, which occurred in 2023, Mumtaz painted a picture of Fardeen as a devoted father and a caring former partner, expressing her heartfelt desire for the couple to reconcile.
"He Is My Favourite": Mumtaz's Heartfelt Praise for Fardeen
In a candid conversation, Mumtaz did not hold back her admiration for Fardeen Khan, the son of late actor Feroz Khan. She fondly referred to him as a "heera ladka" (gem of a boy) and revealed a personal connection dating back to his birth. "I love him because when he was born and we were shooting for Feroz's film, I drank the celebratory champagne in his name. He is such a sweetheart," Mumtaz shared, highlighting her long-standing affection.
Her praise extended to his character as a family man. Despite the separation, with Natasha living in London with their children Diani and Azarius and Fardeen residing in Mumbai, Mumtaz emphasized his unwavering commitment. "He is an amazing father and a very good husband. He loves his children more than his own life," she stated, noting that he frequently takes the children on vacations during their holidays with Natasha's full support.
Fardeen's Caring Gestures Amidst Separation
Mumtaz provided specific examples of Fardeen's dedication, which she believes sets him apart. She recounted an incident when Natasha was unwell in London. "When my daughter was a little sick in London, he flew from India thrice to visit her," Mumtaz revealed. She contrasted this with what others might have done, stating it wasn't necessary for him to make those trips, yet he chose to do so out of care.
She further described his gentle nature with the children, saying he "keeps them like a flower" and never refuses them, often going shopping with them. Mumtaz also mentioned that Fardeen continues to show respect and affection towards her, often sending gifts to both her and Natasha when he finds something nice.
A Mother's Hope for Reconciliation
While respecting their adult decision, Mumtaz openly shared her wish to see the couple reunite. "I would still pray to God that these two reunite," she expressed. She clarified that the couple is separated but not divorced, and in her view, "nothing serious has happened." She attributed the split to the common ups and downs of marriage, suggesting they may have simply drifted apart.
Mumtaz disclosed that she has directly asked Fardeen about reconciliation. "I have told Fardeen 2-4 times..why can't you both be together? He just says, 'We will see'," she recounted. She concluded with a philosophical note, "Par pata nahi takhdeer ko manzoor hai ki nahi (don't know what destiny wants). They both will have to think and then decide."
This is not the first time Mumtaz has spoken about the separation. In a July interview, the 78-year-old actor had similarly expressed her love for Fardeen and hope for the marriage. On the professional front, Fardeen Khan marked his return to films after a long break with a role in the ensemble comedy Housefull 5 last year.
