World Cancer Day : Bollywood Stars Who Conquered the Battle and Those We Lost

Mumbai. The word “Cancer” often brings a sense of dread, yet history shows that with courage and timely intervention, this battle can be won. As the world observes World Cancer Day on February 4, we reflect on the journeys of various Indian celebrities. This day serves as a powerful reminder of hope through those who survived, while also reopening old wounds by remembering the legends we lost to this terminal illness.

The primary goal of World Cancer Day is to spread awareness about prevention and the critical importance of early detection. The stories of these stars teach us that resilience, family support, and medical diligence are life-saving pillars.

The Survivors: Icons of Hope and Resilience

Many Bollywood celebrities have faced the “Big C” and emerged victorious, proving that a diagnosis is not the end.

• Sonali Bendre: Diagnosed with Stage-4 metastatic cancer in 2018, Sonali underwent rigorous treatment in New York. Today, she is cancer-free and a vocal advocate for health awareness.

• Sanjay Dutt: In 2020, the actor was diagnosed with Stage-3 lung cancer. Following successful chemotherapy, he returned to the silver screen with renewed vigor.

• Manisha Koirala: A survivor of ovarian cancer (diagnosed in 2012), Manisha has become an inspiration, even penning a book about her journey to encourage others.

• Hina Khan & Mahima Chaudhary: Mahima Chaudhary battled breast cancer in 2022 after it was detected during a routine checkup. Similarly, TV star Hina Khan has shared her brave journey with the world.

• Tahira Kashyap & Kirron Kher: Tahira Kashyap has been a pillar of strength through her breast cancer battle, while veteran actress Kirron Kher successfully defeated multiple myeloma (blood cancer).

• Anurag Basu & Lisa Ray: Filmmaker Anurag Basu survived acute promyelocytic leukemia, while Lisa Ray famously championed her fight against multiple myeloma.

The Legends Who Fought Until the End

While many won, some of our most beloved stars succumbed to the disease, leaving a void in the industry.

• Irfan Khan & Rishi Kapoor: The year 2020 was tragic for cinema. Irfan Khan passed away due to a neuroendocrine tumor, and legendary actor Rishi Kapoor lost his life to leukemia.

• Recent Losses (2025): The industry recently mourned Pankaj Dheer (famed for his role as Karna in Mahabharat), who passed away on October 15, 2025, after a recurring battle with cancer. Producer Prem Sagar and TV actress Priya Marathe (aged 38) also lost their lives to the disease in August 2025.

• The Icons: The list of stars lost to cancer includes India’s first superstar Rajesh Khanna (bladder cancer), the dashing Feroz Khan (lung cancer), and the legendary Vinod Khanna (bladder cancer).

• Classic Era Legends: The industry lost the graceful Nargis Dutt to pancreatic cancer in 1981, and the iconic Raaj Kumar passed away from throat cancer in 1996—a battle he kept private until his final breath.

Other notable figures like Tom Alter, music director Aadesh Shrivastava, and actor Atul Parchure also fought bravely but eventually succumbed to various forms of cancer.

Prevention is Better Than Cure

These stories underscore a singular truth: Early detection saves lives. Regular screenings and awareness are our strongest weapons against this disease. This World Cancer Day, let’s pledge to prioritize health and support those currently in the fight.

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