Veteran actress Mumtaz recently revealed the reason behind her hefty fee for television appearances, stating, "Paisa pheko, tamasha dekho!". This candid remark sheds light on her perspective regarding remuneration for her work in the entertainment industry.
The revelation came after Mumtaz made a rare television appearance with Dharmendra on Indian Idol Season 13 in 2023. This marked their first time together on TV in nearly 50 years. During a conversation with Vickey Lalwani on his YouTube channel, Mumtaz explained that she generally avoids television shows because she believes the pay is not up to par with her expectations. She disclosed that she charged between Rs 18-20 lakh for her appearance on Indian Idol.
Mumtaz elaborated on her stance, saying that she has been approached numerous times for television appearances, but she always makes her price clear. She recounted telling television executives that while others might do it for Rs 3-4 lakh or even for free, she has a fixed price. She emphasized that she has always been particular about getting paid her due, even during her time as a leading lady. She mentioned telling television people countless times what her price is, stating she might adjust Rs 20-25,000, but not more.
Mumtaz's appearance on Indian Idol was a memorable one, as she and Dharmendra recreated a romantic moment on stage. The judges of the show, Himesh Reshammiya, Neha Kakkar, and Vishal Dadlani, along with host Aditya Narayan, were present.
Notably, this isn't the first time Mumtaz's fees for television appearances have made headlines. Back in 2021, reports circulated that she had demanded a substantial amount, around Rs 40-50 lakh, to appear on the dance reality show Dance Deewane 3. According to sources, the channel found the quoted price unacceptable. The source noted that it would have been Mumtaz's first appearance on a national television show in a long time and that the channel's refusal was a loss, considering Mumtaz's popularity.
Mumtaz and Dharmendra have shared screen space in films like Loafer (1973) and Jheel Ke Us Paar (1973) and are known for their on-screen chemistry.
