Veteran Bollywood actress Mumtaz has once again spoken candidly about valuing her work and refusing to compromise on her fees, even decades after stepping away from regular screen appearances. Reflecting on her rare television outing with Dharmendra on Indian Idol Season 13 in 2023, Mumtaz revealed that she charged between ₹18 and ₹20 lakh for the appearance.
The episode marked a special moment for fans, as it was the legendary duo’s first television appearance together in nearly 50 years. However, Mumtaz recently clarified that such appearances are exceptions, not the norm, mainly because television platforms often fail to meet her remuneration expectations.
Speaking on journalist Vickey Lalwani’s YouTube channel, Mumtaz shared that despite receiving frequent television offers, she has largely stayed away. “Even now, they keep calling me for TV shows. The only time I went was when I appeared with Dharam ji and danced on stage. After that, I haven’t done any television shows,” she said.
She added that she has been approached over a hundred times since then, but she clearly states her price upfront. “They tell me others do it for ₹3–4 lakh. That’s their choice. Someone may even do it for free. But this is my price. I have always been like this,” Mumtaz explained.
The actress emphasized that being clear about compensation has always been part of her professional ethics. She said she is willing to make minor adjustments of ₹20,000–₹25,000 but not beyond that. “I did only one show and took ₹18–20 lakh. When they say they can’t pay me, I simply don’t do the show. ‘Paisa pheko, tamasha dekho,’” she remarked bluntly.
Mumtaz also revisited her decision to turn down the iconic film Seeta Aur Geeta. While fees were not the only reason, she admitted that being offered a lower amount played a role. She recalled that filmmaker Ramesh Sippy, a prominent name at the time, expected her to agree to ₹2 lakh because of his stature. “Big producers often have ego issues,” she said, adding that she already had many films lined up and didn’t feel pressured to accept the offer.
The role eventually went to Hema Malini, but Mumtaz said she has no regrets. “Please make a list—how many hit films did she have and how many did I? I have given more hits,” she said, clarifying that she wasn’t boasting but answering honestly. Mumtaz stressed that accepting a lower fee could have affected how producers valued her going forward.
Mumtaz and Dharmendra were among the most admired on-screen pairs of the 1970s, starring together in films such as Loafer (1973) and Jheel Ke Us Paar (1973). Their chemistry left a lasting impression on audiences, which made their Indian Idol reunion especially emotional. Recently, Mumtaz also shared a heartfelt tribute for the veteran actor on social media, further reminding fans of their timeless bond.