Truth Behind Meena Kumari Selling Her Bungalow to Mumtaz: What Really Happened:

Suspense crime, Digital Desk : Meena Kumari is best remembered for her Bollywood movies, especially the ones where she played emotionally intense roles. Widely called the the “Tragedy Queen,” she appeared in classics such as Pakeezah, Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam, and Baiju Bawra. Unfortunately, the last few years of her life were difficult due to health complications from severe alcoholism which deteriorated her condition.

Selling Her Bungalow: Helping a Friend in Need

Kumar recalled the actress aspiring to direct her first film, Gomti Ke Kinare, during her declining health in 1972. With the goal of starting her career off perfectly, she wanted it to be a great financial success. Her deteriorating health further delayed the film’s budget which subsequently resulted in dire financial conditions. Due to her worsened condition, the project was chronically underfunded.

To help financially support the film, Meena chose to sell her Bandra bungalow. Her co-star Mumtaz purchased the house which led to speculation. There were rumors that Meena Kumari was having financial issues, or has been pulled out of them by Mumtaz. But recently, the truth behind the story was uncovered by Mumtaz.

Mumtaz's Testimony Removes All Doubts

So far, most of the allegations and assumptions that are being made are way beyond the truth. Let’s take the example of Saawan Kumar Tak, he was good friends with her. And in making of the film, the project ran into certain financial issues. They do need to pay their workers on time,” she said, before elaborating on the fact that her payment was also incomplete, pending ₹5 lakh of the ₹7.5 lakh she was supposed to be paid.

Mumtaz elaborated at length about how Meena was actually suffering from dire illness but still offered to provide the bungalow as an alternative for the sum of unpaid dues. Even though she was not so keen to do that early, later on, she gave in to Meena’s persistent requests that she was not going to survive for long and the wasteful house wouldn’t be put into use if she leaves.

The Distress Sale Of Luxury Property Isn’t True

Mumtaz put a greater emphasis on the fact that Meena’s ultimate decision had nothing to do with being bankrupt. It is claimed by her that Meena didn’t have any relatives to give the house to and decided to instead trust someone with the property. According to Mumtaz, the house was lucky and aided her in progressing with her career.

Meena Kumari’s contribution to Indian Cinema

Meena Kumari commenced her career as a child actor in the 1940s, and, later on, etched a remarkable presence in the history of Indian Cinema. The way she played intricately tragic characters was heart-wrenching for many. Her films continue to resonate with people and instill motivation even after her untimely demise at the age of 38 in March, 1972.