This actress became known for performing her own stunt in films, something not very common for female stars of that era.
Mumtaz, the iconic Bollywood actress from the 1960s and 1970s, was often referred to as the ‘stunt actress’ of Bollywood due to her fearless performances in action-packed sequences. At a time when many actresses primarily focused on, dance, drama and romantic roles, Mumtaz became known for performing her own stunt in films, something not very common for female stars of that era.
Her physicality, courage and willingness to take on action-heavy roles in films like Do Raste, Taj Mahal, Khilona and Rakhwala earned her this title. She often performed dangerous sequences, including car chases, fight scenes and other action-packed stunts, without relying on body doubles.
When Mumtaz rejected marriage proposals of these 2 superstars
Apart from stealing audiences’ heart, her charm captivated some of her contemporaries as well. Mumtaz and Rajesh Khanna’s on-screen chemistry enchanted audiences in films like Aap Ki Kasam, Sacha Jhutha, and Dushman. While their pairing was loved, rumours of heartbreak surfaced when Mumtaz decided to marry businessman Mayur Madhvani. There were reports that Rajesh Khanna cried when actress got married . Decades later, people closed to Kaka revealed that he had expressed, ‘I have lost my right hand!’
On a reality show, Mumtaz disclosed another chapter of her romantic past. Actor Shammi Kapoor, known for her charismatic persona, straightforwardly proposed to her. However, Mumtaz was merely 16 at that time, and she decline the proposal. Reflecting on her relationship in an interview, she revealed, “Shammi Kapoor was really sweet and compassionate with me; nobody could hardly think we were in love.” Audiences were so applaud by their on-screen chemistry that they used to wonder how could the actress turn down such an ardent proposal.
Mumtaz on her heartbreaking marriage and extramarital affair
Well there were many superstars who pursued her, but she experienced a difficult and sorrowful period in her marital life. In an interview with Pinkvilla, Mumtaz talked about her own extra marital affair. She shared that her husband, Mayur, revealed his episode of infidelity, which left her feeling lonely and hurt. She mentioned that she flew to India, and met someone who helped her through it. “Honestly, after the episode, I began feeling lonely. Main thodi rubabwali (headstrong) thi. I felt hurt. So, I flew down to India. When you’re amidst thorns and someone comes along with a rose, you do get carried away. But it was nothing serious. Just a temporary phase, which ended soon.” Mumtaz said.
Mumtaz also opened up about her husband’s affair that made headlines. She shared that it is common for men to have affairs but her husband didn’t have any, except for one.
