Mumtaz is known to share screen space with Rajesh Khanna in several movies and they were a hit pair! Not to mention, the memorable songs which they did together. While Rajesh Khanna is called the first superstar of Hindi cinema, his downfall also cannot be forgotten. In a recent interview, his co-star Mumtaz opened up on what led to this.
The actress said that stars owe their fame to the audience and stars are nothing without the love of the audience. The actress further added during a chat with Rediff, "Without your love, we are nothing. It wasn’t entirely Rajesh Khanna’s fault.
I remember when he was known as the phenomenon. My bungalow was very close to his. I have seen big-name producers and directors behaving like his chamchas.
His girlfriend Anju Mahendru would play host all night. She would serve food and drinks till 3 am. I have seen the same night-long sessions in Shammi Kapoor ’s home.
He used to spend a fortune on entertaining guests." Mumtaz is completely against producers and film-makers who do 'chamchagiri'. Hence, she appreciates Sanjay Leela Bhansali for maintaining a distance and not putting actors on a pedestial.
She said, "He does his work, treats his actors with respect, and goes home. You are paying the actors; why do you need to do their chamchagiri?" Amidst this conversation, Mumtaz also praised Mohammad Rafi for being disciplined, humble and a God-fearing human being..