Veteran Bollywood actor Mumtaz, who graced television screens for the first time in over fifty years in 2023, has made a candid revelation about her deliberate absence from the TV circuit. The iconic star, who appeared alongside Dharmendra on Indian Idol Season 13, stated she consciously avoids television shows because she believes they do not offer her the remuneration she deserves.
"This Is My Price": Mumtaz's Unwavering Stand on Fees
In a recent conversation, Mumtaz disclosed that despite numerous offers, she has remained steadfast about her financial worth. "Till now, they have contacted me over one hundred times and I told them about my price," she asserted. The actor highlighted a stark contrast in industry standards, noting that while some may work for significantly less, she refuses to compromise.
She elaborated, "They said that people do it in Rs 3–4 lakh, so I told them that I can’t say anything for those people. That’s their wish. They can do it for free also, but this is my price. I have always been like that." For her memorable appearance on Indian Idol Season 13, where she danced with Dharmendra, Mumtaz confirmed she was paid Rs 18–20 lakh.
Mumtaz's stance is non-negotiable. She has clearly communicated her terms to television producers, stating she might adjust a minor amount but will not accept a major cut. "I have told the television people a thousand times that this is my price. I can adjust Rs 20–25k, but not more than that," she said. Summarizing her philosophy, she added, "Paisa pheko, tamasha dekho!"
A Principle Forged in Her Cinematic Heyday
This firm approach to valuing her work is not a recent development. Mumtaz shared that she held the same principles during her peak years as a leading lady in Hindi cinema. She reflected on her decision to turn down the iconic film Seeta Aur Geeta, a role that eventually went to Hema Malini.
While acknowledging that fees were not the sole reason, she confirmed it was a contributing factor. "Ramesh Sippy sahab was a big producer and director at that time, so he thought I might do it in Rs 2 lakh because he was a big producer. Every big producer has their own ego issues," Mumtaz explained.
She felt no pressure to accept the project, as she was already flooded with offers. "Thankfully, I was getting so many films already that I didn’t feel this film would do anything special for me. So, things didn’t work out between us," she stated. When asked if she ever regretted this decision, her answer was a firm "no."
Legacy and Bonds: The Enduring Mumtaz-Dharmendra Chemistry
Mumtaz's recent television outing was special precisely because it reunited her with her legendary co-star Dharmendra. The duo, celebrated for their sparkling on-screen chemistry, starred together in popular films like Loafer (1973) and Jheel Ke Us Paar (1973).
Their bond transcends the screen, as evidenced by Mumtaz's recent heartfelt social media tribute to Dharmendra, where she fondly remembered their shared cinematic journey. This appearance on Indian Idol stands as a rare exception in her decades-long career, a testament to the special occasion of performing with an old friend and colleague.
Mumtaz's revelations offer a glimpse into the mindset of a veteran who has consistently prioritized her self-worth. From the sets of classic Bollywood films to the modern-day television studio, her message remains clear: she knows her value and is not afraid to stand by it, regardless of prevailing industry trends.
