Veteran actor Mumtaz, who started her journey in films as a child artist in the early 1950s, had to overcome several challenges before becoming one of Bollywood’s leading stars. Initially cast in smaller and B-grade roles, her career took a major turn when she starred opposite Dilip Kumar in the 1967 hit Ram Aur Shyam. The film catapulted her into the spotlight, making her one of the most in-demand actresses of her era—though her time at the top was relatively brief.

At one point, Shammi Kapoor had reportedly proposed marriage to her, with the condition that she leave acting. At that stage, Mumtaz chose her career. However, years later in 1974, she made a different decision and stepped away from films to marry businessman Mayur Madhvani, moving to London to begin a new chapter.

Speaking about her marriage, Mumtaz revealed that her family played a major role in the decision. “I didn’t have a choice. My mother, grandmother, and aunt had approved the proposal… and suggested I quit acting and settle down,” she shared. She also dismissed any concerns around interfaith marriage, saying her family never believed in religious divisions.

Opening up about life after marriage, Mumtaz said she was never pressured to change her habits or lifestyle. Despite her husband being vegetarian, she continued her own food preferences without restriction.

She also addressed past rumours about her bond with Feroz Khan, clarifying that they were close friends with shared cultural roots, but never romantically involved. Interestingly, their families later became connected when her daughter Natasha married Fardeen Khan in 2005.

Mumtaz’s story reflects the personal choices and family influences that shaped her journey beyond the silver screen.