Dipika Kakkar prepares for high-risk cancer surgery; Shoaib shares emotional health plea

Television actor Dipika Kakkar Ibrahim is set to undergo a major surgery for stage two liver cancer. Her husband, Shoaib Ibrahim, confirmed the surgery will take place on Tuesday morning, following a brief delay caused by a viral infection. The couple has been transparent about her health journey, keeping their followers informed through social media and vlogs.

Dipika’s health began deteriorating in early May when she experienced intense abdominal pain. What initially seemed like a routine health concern turned serious after tests revealed a tumour in her liver. “As you all are aware, the last few weeks have been quite difficult for us,” Dipika wrote on May 27. “Walking into the hospital for a pain in the upper area of my stomach... and then finding out it's a tennis ball size tumour in the liver and then finding out that the tumour is second stage malignant (cancerous)... it has been one of the most difficult times we have seen.”

On his Instagram Story, Shoaib shared an emotional update: “Dippi’s surgery is scheduled to happen tomorrow morning. It’s going to be a long surgery... she needs all your prayers and strength the most... please keep her in your prayers.”

In a recent vlog on YouTube, Shoaib offered more clarity on Dipika’s medical reports. “Alhamdulillah, by the grace of Allah, the scan report came out clear. The virus or its cells have not spread anywhere else in the body. Whatever is there is confined to the tumour, and once the tumour is surgically removed, Inshallah, things will get better,” he said. “As of now, the doctors are saying everything looks under control, though ultimately, Allah knows best what the future holds.”

Dipika, who joined him briefly in the vlog, said, “Of course, hearing this word—cancer—is terrifying, both for the patient and their family. But we’re staying strong, keeping the faith, and hoping for the best.”

Known for her role in Sasural Simar Ka, Dipika had recently returned to the screen with Celebrity MasterChef India after a long break. However, she had to exit the show early due to her health issues.