Veteran actor Mumtaz has sparked a fresh debate in the film industry with her remarks on Zeenat Aman’s acting abilities. In a recent conversation, Mumtaz stated that Zeenat Aman was not a very good actor and questioned how many awards she had received during her career, using the point to underline her view on stardom and performance.

Speaking about the idea of stardom, Mumtaz said that being a “star” is a rare achievement that takes years of dedication. She drew a clear distinction between actors and stars, noting that not everyone in the industry can be considered a true star. She cited legendary names like Dilip Kumar, Dev Anand, and Shammi Kapoor as examples of iconic stardom.

Mumtaz also mentioned that while Sanjeev Kumar was an excellent performer, she did not consider him a “big star,” reinforcing her belief that talent and stardom are not always the same. Among female actors, she identified Madhubala, Meena Kumari, Nargis, and Rekha as true examples of enduring stardom.

Her comments on Zeenat Aman have drawn attention as they highlight the difference she sees between popularity and acting skill. Mumtaz suggested that widespread fame alone does not define a great actor and emphasised that recognition through awards and consistent performances plays a role in shaping an artist’s legacy.

The remarks have reignited discussions in Bollywood about how stardom is defined and whether commercial success, critical acclaim, or longevity should determine an actor’s standing in the industry.