For years, millions of people across the world have suffered from the deadly disease cancer, a word that continues to instill fear in countless families. Often, it is not just the patient but also their loved ones who put on a brave face, standing firmly by their side and helping them battle the illness with strength and hope.
Over time, significant advances in cancer treatment have offered renewed hope. The Government of India, along with doctors and researchers, has made notable medical advancements, leading to successful treatment and recovery for many patients.
However, despite progress, many still succumb to the disease.
Today, as people all across the world share awareness about World Cancer Day 2026, it serves as a reminder of the importance of awareness, early diagnosis, and access to proper care in the ongoing fight against cancer.
Let's take a look at celebs who bravely won over cancer, giving hope and resilience to those battling
Kirron Kher
Actor and politician Kirron Kher was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2021. She underwent treatment while continuing her public responsibilities. Though she has recovered from cancer, recent videos circulating on social media showing her looking pale and weak have raised concerns among fans.
Mahima Chaudhry
Mahima Chaudhry was diagnosed with breast cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic. She underwent surgery and treatment away from the public eye. After recovering, she shared her journey to raise awareness about regular screenings, highlighting how early detection can significantly improve survival chances. She is now cancer-free, and fans are eagerly awaiting her comeback.
Lisa Ray
Actor and model Lisa Ray was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a rare blood cancer, in 2009. She underwent stem cell treatment and went into remission. Lisa has since been vocal about spreading awareness around rare cancers, emphasising resilience, self-care, and emotional healing. She has returned to acting and was seen in the web series Four More Shots Please, streaming on Amazon Prime Video India.
Manisha Koirala
Manisha Koirala was diagnosed with stage IV ovarian cancer in 2012. In 2013, she was declared cancer-free. Since then, she has made a strong comeback to acting and continues to advocate for cancer awareness and early diagnosis.
Sonali Bendre
In 2018, Sonali Bendre Behl battled metastatic cancer and sought treatment in New York. She documented her journey on social media, inspiring many with her positivity and strength. She is now cancer-free and has returned to acting and hosting.
Hina Khan
Actor Hina Khan is currently in the recovery phase of stage 3 breast cancer. Diagnosed in June 2024, she recently confirmed that her chemotherapy and immunotherapy sessions are nearly complete. She has been bravely documenting her journey, which included surgeries and intense treatment. Despite the challenges, she has continued working and focusing on her career, including participating in projects such as Pati Patni Aur Panga.
Tahira Kashyap
Filmmaker Tahira Kashyap, wife of actor Ayushmann Khurrana, was first diagnosed with stage 0 DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma in Situ) breast cancer in 2018 and experienced a relapse in 2025. She underwent a mastectomy and continues treatment, while openly sharing her journey to advocate regular screenings and destigmatise conversations around cancer.
Chhavi Mittal
Chhavi Mittal was diagnosed with breast cancer in April 2022 and overcame the disease in 2023. She has never shied away from showing her post-surgery scars, embracing them as symbols of survival and strength. Through social media, she has shared her treatment journey and encouraged early detection and regular screenings. In 2023, she was also diagnosed with costochondritis, a condition marked by inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the breastbone.
