Did you know actress Minoo Mumtaz sparked controversy after she romanced her real-life elder brother Mehmood on screen? |

Minoo Mumtaz, known for her dancing and acting skills, faced backlash for portraying a romantic role opposite her real-life brother on screen. The controversy led to public outrage and demands for her ban. She was also related to Meena Kumari and singer Lucky Ali.
Early Life and Family Struggles
Minoo Mumtaz was born on 26 April 1942 and was one of nine siblings. Her father, Mumtaz Ali, was a performer and dance teacher, but his alcohol addiction caused financial problems for the family. As a result, Minoo had to take on responsibilities at a young age.Family Connections in the Film Industry
Minoo Mumtaz’s elder brother, Mehmood, rose to fame as a popular comedian and actor in Hindi films, while his son, Lucky Ali, became a well-known singer. Mehmood married Madhu, the sister of legendary actress Meena Kumari, creating a family connection between Minoo and Meena.
Minoo Mumtaz, originally named Malikunnisa Ali, was admired for her beauty and dancing skills. She got her first big opportunity at the age of 13 when filmmaker Nanubhai Vakil cast her in the 1955 movie Hakim.
Rising Stardom in the 1950s and 60s
Even though her mother initially disapproved, Minoo Mumtaz followed her passion for acting. By 14, she had already gained recognition, appearing in films like Chaudhvin Ka Chand, Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam, Kaagaz Ke Phool, and Howrah Bridge, and continued working actively through the 1950s and 1960s.

The Song That Sparked a Scandal
Minoo Mumtaz’s career faced a major controversy when she appeared opposite her brother Mehmood in the song ‘Gora Rang Chunariya Kaali’ from Howrah Bridge. The scene, driven by financial pressures, sparked public outrage, with many criticising the on-screen portrayal of siblings in a romantic setup.
Marriage and Exit from Films
On the personal front, Minoo Mumtaz married director S. Ali Akbar in 1963 and soon stepped away from the film industry. Before retiring, she completed her work on Jahan Ara and Palki while pregnant. She later had four children and moved abroad, but continued to visit India occasionally.
In her later years, Minoo Mumtaz battled serious health issues. In 2003, she began suffering from memory loss, which led doctors to discover a four-inch brain tumour that had been silently growing for nearly 15 years.
After receiving treatment in Toronto, Minoo Mumtaz regained her memory, though her overall health stayed delicate. She passed away in 2021 in Toronto, remembered for her remarkable talent and the strength she showed throughout her life.