Kamal Ghorui
Veteran actor Mumtaz has expressed deep emotion over the fate of Rajesh Khanna’s iconic bungalow, Aashirwad, calling it a “monument” and admitting that its loss still affects her.In a recent chat with Vickey Lalwani, Mumtaz spoke about her close bond with Khanna, her frequent visits to the bungalow, and the memories attached to it.
‘This was my hero’s house’
Recalling Aashirwad, Mumtaz said the place still holds immense emotional value for her.“It did hurt me. Even today, when I see that building, I say, ‘This was my hero’s house.’”She added, “It was such a big landmark—it was like a monument.”Mumtaz revealed that her own residence, which she bought from Meena Kumari, was located very close to Aashirwad.“The house we stay in on Carter Road—that was Meena Kumari’s. It was very close to Rajesh Khanna’s bungalow. I used to go there very often.”She fondly remembered the warmth she received from Khanna and his then partner Anju Mahendru.“When Anju was with him, she would call me over and make me sit. Even when I got engaged to Mayur, I would take him along.”“Kaka and Anju would take such good care of us—‘Have this, eat that.’ People in the film industry are very large-hearted.”
‘That was the dream—to turn it into a museum’
Speaking about what happened to the bungalow, Mumtaz said she had heard about plans to preserve it.“That was the dream—that it would become a museum after his passing. But after he passed away, I don’t know why it was sold.”She refrained from speculating further.“I heard there were some internal issues, but I don’t know the details. When you don’t know the truth, you shouldn’t comment.”Calling herself deeply emotional, Mumtaz said her bonds in the industry have always been lasting.“I’m a very emotional person. When I love someone or become friends, it’s forever. I was very close to Anju and Kaka.”
‘I knew he would come late, but finish his work’
Alongside personal memories, Mumtaz also opened up about working with Rajesh Khanna on set, including his well-known habit of arriving late.“No, because he would come and complete his work. With Rajesh Khanna, we had an understanding. I knew he would come late, but he would finish his work.” She added that she adapted her schedule accordingly.“Yes, we had arguments sometimes. But I adjusted a lot. The director would take my solo shots first. I would even ask, ‘Should I perform this at a high pitch or low?’ and do it accordingly.”“Then when he came, we would do the combined shots. After that, my pack-up was done. I used to tell him, ‘My close-ups are done, you do your part now. You came late—I’m leaving.’”
