Shatrughan Sinha recalls how Mumtaz rescued him amid criticism from crew for failing to give first shot: ‘Your life will be ruined’

Reflecting on his early days in the film industry, Shatrughan Sinha recounted how Mumtaz came to his recue during the shooting of Khilona after he faced criticism from crew members for struggling with dialogue delivery in his first shot.

Shatrughan Sinha, a prominent figure in 80s and 90s cinema, has shed light on a common practice in the film industry during that era. In a recent interview, the veteran actor revealed how filmmakers often capitalized on casting former couples or ex-partners to generate buzz around their projects. Amid this discussion, Sinha commended actor Hema Malini for her exemplary professionalism, regardless of any personal differences she may have had with her co-stars.

Speaking to Aaj Tak, he said, “I really appreciate Hema Malini. She is my family friend. In my life I have never heard or seen Hema Malini cancel shooting because her mood is bad or because she has a rift with someone. The people with whom she had a rift with might not come, but she would always be present for shooting. Many stars become moody.”

Reflecting on his early days in the film industry, Shatrughan Sinha recounted how Mumtaz came to his recue during the shooting of Khilona after he faced criticism from crew members for struggling with dialogue delivery in his first shot of the film. “I was working for the film Khilona with Mumtaz. I got that film after much difficulty. Nobody was asking me at that time, I was cancelled. It was because of Mumtaz’s insistence that I got the film. The filmmaker thought that I won’t align with Mumtaz and Sanjeev Kumar as I was young and new in the industry,” he said.

The actor added, “During the shooting of that film, I was not able to give my first shot till lunch break. I was so scared, I was fumbling. Every makeup man who was coming was warning me ‘Your life will be ruined.’ The other crew members were also scolding me. But it was Mumtaz who scolded them and made me sit with her. She encouraged me and thanks to that in second half I finished everything before time.”

Khilona, directed by Chander Vohra and also featuring Jeetendra in a prominent role, emerged as a major success both critically and commercially.