If Dilip Kumar hadn't worked with me, I would've never become such a big star: Mumtaz

While regional tensions may persist, few things highlight art's ability to bridge differences as effectively as the heartfelt camaraderie between Bollywood legend Mumtaz and Pakistani A-lister Ahsan Khan. Since the announcement of the Indian veteran's two-week visit to Pakistan, the Udaari star has frequently been seen in her company, underscoring their endearing friendship.

Furthering this cross-border rapport, Ahsan enjoyed the honour of interviewing Mumtaz for a widely adored new year's special show on a private television channel. Articulating his joy at having had the opportunity, the Fraud actor shared an Instagram grid post displaying a montage of their candid talk.

“Interviewing Mumtaz is an absolute honour,” Ahsan emotively penned in the post’s caption. “It was a surreal experience to sit down with someone who has made such a significant impact in the industry,” he added, referring to the Loafer actor’s esteemed portfolio that continues to charm fans across borders. 

“Her talent, charisma, and dedication were truly inspiring. I felt incredibly privileged to have the opportunity to ask her questions and hear her unique perspective. It’s a memory I will cherish forever,” Ahsan further stated.

The candid interview found Mumtaz recounting her entry into the acting world at an early age. "Since I was young, I wanted to do something big. So at the age of 7, I would dance and demand everything perfect, you know, I was very particular," she shared. In a heartfelt moment, Mumtaz reminisced how she made a meagre sum back in the day for one shoot session and proudly displayed it to her mother.

Relaying her experience of sharing a dance stage with veteran actor-dancer Meenu Mumtaz in her film Faulad in 1963, Mumtaz added, "I was trembling when I first went to the set because she was one of the best dancers in those days." Remarkably, Mumtaz was only 14 then and as per the actor, she felt she knew nothing in front of the elegant and composed Meenu.

Mumtaz also divulged how she got her first film with the iconic Dilip Kumar, after some intervention by her co-star Mehmood. "If Dilip Kumar hadn't agreed to work with me, perhaps I would have never become such a big star," she offered with a smile, talking about Ram aur Shyam.

Ahsan and Mumtaz's friendship grabbed eyeballs last year with a viral clip where the two came together to rekindle the magic of the 1968 hit Aaj Kal Tere Mere Pyar Ke Charche from the movie Brahmachari. The clip, which circulated on social media, found Ahsan donning sunglasses and leading Mumtaz in a joyful dance reminiscent of the iconic song's original picturisation on Mumtaz and Shammi Kapoor.

The video captures Ahsan holding Mumtaz's hand, exuding an infectious joy that makes her laugh. Mumtaz, just like in the classic song opposite Shammi Kapoor years ago, chimes in with her signature lines "Acha?" and "Toh Kya?" adding a touch of nostalgia to the spontaneous performance.

The delightful interaction serves as a reminder of the glorious era of the 1960s and Mumtaz's iconic orange sari, which became a trendsetter after the release of the film Brahmachari. The song Aaj Kal Tere Mere Pyar Ke Charche was a chartbuster and continues to be a beloved track for many.

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