National Cancer Awareness Day 2025: 6 Indian Actresses Whose Battle With Cancer Deserves A Standing Ovation

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Every year on 7 November, India observes National Cancer Awareness Day, a day to remind ourselves that early detection saves lives and that awareness can make all the difference. For many, cancer begins as a word that shakes everything they know. But for some women from Indian cinema, it became a story of strength and a renewed outlook on life. Here's a look at six actresses who faced different forms of cancer, and what their journeys and their diagnoses mean.

Photo Credit: Instagram@iamsonalibendre/m_koirala

Manisha Koirala: Ovarian Cancer (Stage IV)

Photo Credit: Instagram@m_koirala

Ovarian cancer begins in the ovaries, often going unnoticed until it spreads. Manisha Koirala was diagnosed in 2012 and underwent major surgery followed by chemotherapy. Her battle was long, but she emerged cancer-free and now uses her experience to advocate early check-ups for women.

Sonali Bendre: Metastatic Cancer

Metastatic cancer is when cancer spreads from its original site to other parts of the body. Sonali's diagnosis in 2018 led her to seek treatment in New York. She spoke about losing her hair, the emotional toll of chemotherapy, and how hope and family support helped her heal. Today, she is in remission and continues to work actively.

Kirron Kher: Multiple Myeloma

🙏 pic.twitter.com/3C0dcWwch4

— Anupam Kher (@AnupamPKher) April 1, 2021

Multiple myeloma is a rare type of blood cancer that affects plasma cells in the bone marrow. Kirron Kher was diagnosed with it in 2021 and began treatment soon after. Though it's considered incurable, it can be managed with regular medication and care. Kirron has shared that she's stable and focusing on her work while continuing treatment.

Mahima Chaudhry: Breast Cancer

Breast cancer develops in the breast tissue and is among the most common cancers in women. Mahima discovered hers early during a routine check-up in 2022. After successful treatment, she is now cancer-free and often speaks about how early screening saved her life.

Tannishtha Chatterjee: Oligo-Metastatic Cancer (Stage 4)

Tannishtha Chatterjee recently revealed that she's been diagnosed with stage 4 oligo-metastatic cancer, a form where the disease has spread, but only to a limited number of areas. She continues to receive treatment and has been open about balancing her work and personal life during this phase, encouraging honest conversations around late-stage cancer care.

Nafisa Ali: Peritoneal And Ovarian Cancer

Nafisa Ali was diagnosed with stage 3 peritoneal and ovarian cancer in 2018. After several rounds of chemotherapy, she was declared cancer-free, but the disease resurfaced in 2025. She is currently undergoing treatment and remains candid about her recovery journey, using her platform to spread awareness about early detection and mental strength.

What Their Stories Teach Us

These six women show that cancer doesn't define a person, how they face it does. Each journey is different, but they all highlight one truth: awareness and timely action can change outcomes.

• Routine health checks save lives.
• Early detection makes treatment easier.
• Support systems - family, friends, faith are vital.
• Talking about illness helps remove stigma.

On National Cancer Awareness Day 2025, their courage reminds us to pay attention to our health, listen to our bodies, and never ignore warning signs.