Mumtaz Askari Madhvani is an Indian actress. Primarily known for her work in Hindi films, she is the recipient of a Filmfare Award, and the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award, for her contributions to Hindi cinema.
Born into poverty in an urban slum in Mumbai, Mumtaz made her acting debut at age 11 with Sone Ki Chidiya. Following smaller roles as a teenager in films like; Stree, Sehra, and Gehra Daag, Mumtaz progressed to leading roles with a series of action films opposite wrestler Dara Singh in films like; Faulad and Daku Mangal Singh. However, her appearance in these films typecasted her as "Stunt Film Heroine" and her career stalled. Following praised supporting work in films; Ram Aur Shyam, Mere Hamdam Mere Dost and Brahmachari, Mumtaz had her career breakthrough with Raj Khosla's family drama Do Raaste. She went on to establish herself as one of the leading actresses of Hindi cinema with films; Bandhan, Aadmi Aur Insaan, Sachaa Jhutha, Khilona, Tere Mere Sapne, Hare Rama Hare Krishna, Apna Desh, Loafer, Jheel Ke Us Paar, Chor Machaye Shor, Aap Ki Kasam, Roti, Prem Kahani and Nagin.