For audiences who grew up watching her light up the silver screen Mumtaz remains one of Hindi cinema’s most cherished stars. But despite her enduring popularity her appearances on television have been few and far between. Recently the actress revisited one such rare moment from 2023 when she appeared on Indian Idol Season 13 alongside Dharmendra marking their first on-screen reunion on television in nearly 50 years.
The episode was widely celebrated by fans who were thrilled to see the iconic pair share the stage and even dance together. However Mumtaz revealed that such moments are exceptions rather than the norm in her career today.

Why does Mumtaz stay away from television?
In a candid conversation on Vickey Lalwani’s YouTube channel Mumtaz explained that she continues to receive regular television offers but chooses to turn most of them down. “Even today I am invited to appear on TV” she said. “The time I went on stage with Dharam ji and danced with him that was the only time I did television.”
According to the actress the primary reason behind her refusal is not disinterest but the unwillingness of producers to meet her fee. She shared that she has been approached more than a hundred times over the years and each time she has clearly stated her price.

“I won’t compromise beyond a point”
Mumtaz revealed that she was paid approximately Rs 18–20 lakh for her Indian Idol appearance and made it clear she would not do similar shows for less. “They tell me people do it for Rs 3–4 lakh. I say that’s their choice. Someone may even do it for free but this is my worth” she said bluntly.
While she is open to minor adjustments Mumtaz insists she will not undervalue herself. “I can adjust Rs 20–25 thousand not more than that” she said summing it up with a sharp line Paisa pheko tamasha dekho (Throw the money watch the show).”

Turning down ‘Seeta Aur Geeta’ why no regrets?
This firm stance on her worth is something Mumtaz has followed since the peak of her career. She recalled turning down the iconic film Seeta Aur Geeta due to fee disagreements. “Ramesh Sippy sahab thought I would do it for Rs 2 lakh because he was a big producer” she said adding that big names often come with big egos.
At the time Mumtaz was juggling multiple projects and felt no pressure to compromise. When asked if she regrets rejecting a film that went on to become a massive hit her response was unapologetic. “Please make a list I’ve given more hit films” she said clarifying that it wasn’t arrogance but self-respect.

Standing tall on her legacy
Mumtaz emphasised that once an actor lowers their fee producers begin to question their value. She would have loved to do Seeta Aur Geeta she admitted but not at the cost of her self-worth. Her legendary pairing with Dharmendra in films like Loafer and Jheel Ke Us Paar continues to be remembered fondly cementing her place as one of Hindi cinema’s most confident and self-assured stars.
Even today Mumtaz’s message is clear: knowing your worth—and standing by it—never goes out of style.