When Mumtaz reveals she underwent six chemotherapy sessions and 35 radiation treatments during her battle with cancer: ‘Had it not been for my husband, I’d have been dead…’ |

Mumtaz, the iconic actress, sacrificed her flourishing career for marriage to Mayur Madhvani in 1974, who patiently waited two years for her to gracefully exit the film industry. Despite a happy marriage, she wishes for more time together due to Mayur’s travel-heavy schedule. Mumtaz also bravely battled cancer with Mayur’s unwavering support, undergoing rigorous treatments.

From screen icon to survivor, Mumtaz’s life has been a blend of glamour, grit, and grace. The timeless star once opened up about her legendary career, love, marriage, and her brave fight against cancer—with unwavering support from husband Mayur Madhvani.Mumtaz married Ugandan businessman Mayur Madhvani in 1974, but the wedding didn’t happen right away. In a recent chat with Filmibeat, the Upaasna actress revealed that she asked Mayur for time—two full years—so she could gracefully exit the film industry first. He patiently waited while she wrapped up her commitments, including returning signing amounts and walking away from nearly four to five films. Reflecting on that phase, Mumtaz shared, “It took my husband to wait for two years till I finished my signing thing... maine kitni picturein chhod di.”Choosing love over careerMumtaz, one of the most iconic stars of the ’70s, has no regrets about leaving her film career to marry Mayur Madhvani, following her heart in making that life choice. While she cherishes their happy marriage, she wishes they could spend more time together, as Mayur’s demanding, travel-heavy schedule often keeps them apart.Battle with cancerIn an earlier interview with Pinkvilla, Mumtaz spoke about her courageous battle with cancer, highlighting how Mayur’s unwavering support played a crucial role in her recovery. She underwent six chemotherapy sessions and 35 radiation treatments, and it was Mayur’s insistence on thorough medical checks and his emotional strength that kept her going. He encouraged her to undergo additional surgery to ensure her health, reassuring her with love and humor, even joking about her looking cute like a popular bald doll.Though Mumtaz didn’t hesitate to leave her career to marry Mayur Madhvani, she once ended her relationship with actor Shammi Kapoor to protect her professional life. In a recent interview with Vickey Lalwani, she revealed her deep love for Shammi and that their 17–18 year age difference never bothered her. However, Raj Kapoor opposed the idea of a Kapoor daughter-in-law continuing to work in films after marriage, which ultimately influenced their split.