World Cancer Day 2025: A look at popular celebs who fought and won the battle with bravery

Today marks World Cancer Day, a significant occasion aimed at raising awareness and fostering hope for those impacted by cancer. Around the globe, countless individuals have bravely confronted and triumphed over this disease, transforming their experiences into inspiring narratives of strength and resilience. From renowned actors to celebrated athletes, their stories highlight the remarkable capacity of the human spirit to persevere. On this day, let’s reflect on the journeys of some remarkable cancer survivors from various industries.

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Sonali Bendre

In 2018, Sonali Bendre bravely shared her journey with metastatic high-grade cancer. She underwent treatment in New York and kept her followers updated through social media, allowing many to draw strength from her experience. Her unwavering fighting spirit and optimistic outlook have made her a beacon of hope for cancer patients around the world.

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Anurag Basu

In 2004, director Anurag Basu was diagnosed with acute promyelocytic leukemia, a form of blood cancer, and doctors estimated his chances of survival at only 50%. However, he refused to let this setback deter him and continued to work, even writing scripts and directing segments of Tumsa Nahi Dekha from his hospital bed. Despite the challenges he faced, Basu has remained a significant figure in Bollywood. He went on to direct the film Jagga Jasoos, featuring stars like Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif, and he frequently serves as a judge on various television reality shows.

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Tahira Kashyap

In 2018, director Tahira Kashyap faced a breast cancer diagnosis. Rather than keeping her experience private, she chose to share it openly, hoping to inspire others in similar situations. By January 2019, she completed her treatment, and her photos showcasing her baldness went viral, sending a powerful message that there is no shame in battling cancer. Today, she continues to advocate for early detection and awareness surrounding breast cancer.

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Yuvraj Singh

Yuvraj Singh, one of India's most celebrated cricketers, was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer known as mediastinal seminoma in 2011. This diagnosis came during the ICC Cricket World Cup, where he played a pivotal role in leading India to victory. Following his diagnosis, Singh underwent chemotherapy in the United States, facing a tough battle against the disease. Despite the challenges he encountered, he demonstrated incredible resilience and made a remarkable return to cricket after successful treatment. His inspiring journey has motivated millions around the world, leading to the creation of the YouWeCan Foundation, which focuses on cancer awareness and treatment. Singh's bravery and determination continue to inspire many individuals facing similar challenges.

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Hina Khan

Hina Khan, the actress known for her role in "Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai," shared an update about her health on social media on September 5, 2024. She revealed that she is undergoing chemotherapy for cancer, which has led to mucositis as a side effect. Hina mentioned that she is following her doctor's advice for treatment and expressed her struggle with being unable to eat. Recently, she was spotted walking the ramp in a stunning bridal look, showcasing her resilience during this challenging time.

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Kirron Kher

Veteran actress Kirron Kher has been diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a cancer that impacts plasma cells. Her husband, Anupam Kher, revealed that she is currently receiving treatment for this condition. Her son, Sikander, regularly updates fans about her health through social media. Recently, Kirron herself took to Instagram to share that she is continuing to work from home.

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Chhavi Mittal

In April 2022, popular TV actor Chhavi Mittal took to social media to share her diagnosis of early-stage breast cancer. After undergoing surgery, she proudly announced that she was cancer-free. However, a few months later, she updated her fans about a new health issue—costochondritis, which is an injury to the cartilage in the chest. She humorously remarked, "Naya wali beemari layi hoon market mein [I am here with a new disease]. It's called costochondritis. Fancy no? (It's an injury to a cartilage in the chest)." Chhavi explained that the probable causes could be radiation from her cancer treatment, a side effect of an injection she received for osteopenia (a condition with low bone mineral density), an incessant cough she had experienced recently, or a combination of these factors.