Dilip Kumar and Madhubala’s relationship deteriorated during Mughal-e-Azam due to her father’s interference. Tensions escalated when a scripted slap turned real on set, highlighting their strained bond. Their real-life romance, filled with heartbreak, contrasts with their iconic on-screen roles.

Dilip Kumar and Madhubala’s love ended during Mughal-e-Azam due to her father’s interference and the Naya Daur case, where BR Chopra sued Madhubala, with Dilip testifying. Despite their breakup, the film’s shoot continued. In one scene, Dilip turned a scripted slap into a real one, adding tension on set.
The book I Want To Live: The Story of Madhubala by Khatija Akbar recounts the incident through Ajit, a co-actor in Mughal-e-Azam and Naya Daur. It reveals that Dilip Kumar slapped Madhubala with full force during the scene. Though the shot was approved, the unexpected moment left the set in silence.
Ajit recalled that as Madhubala stood in shock, K Asif rushed to her, interpreting the slap as a sign that Dilip Kumar still loved her despite their breakup. However, his words had no impact on Madhubala, who was deeply hurt that someone she once loved had used acting as an excuse to slap her.
In his memoirs, Dilip Kumar revealed that Madhubala’s father, Ataullah Khan, wanted their marriage to benefit his production company by making them work exclusively for it. Dilip refused, explaining he chose projects independently. This upset Ataullah, who then convinced Madhubala that Dilip was being disrespectful and arrogant.
Their animosity grew to the point where they stopped speaking completely. While they remain iconic for their on-screen romance as Salim and Anarkali, their real-life love story was filled with heartbreak. Fans continue to be fascinated by their tragic relationship, which feels as dramatic as a film itself.