News Desk: Actress Sonali Bendre has opened up about her deeply personal experience with cancer, sharing why she chose to treat her body with love and compassion instead of viewing the illness as a battle she had to win. Speaking to Madhuri Dixit during the grand premiere of *Kon Honar Crorepati*, the Marathi version of *Kaun Banega Crorepati*, Sonali reflected on how the experience changed her outlook on life.
During their conversation, Madhuri praised Sonali for her courage and resilience throughout her cancer journey. She remarked that the actress had emerged stronger after going through one of the most challenging phases of her life.
However, Sonali offered a different perspective on the idea of overcoming cancer. She explained that her primary intention during treatment was not to defeat the disease but to understand what was happening to her body and learn from the experience.
“We often say that someone has overcome cancer,” Sonali said, explaining that the phrase can make the experience sound like a battle filled with negativity.
She questioned the idea of fighting against one's own body, pointing out that cancer cells also originate within the body. Instead of approaching her condition through anger or conflict, she decided to focus on understanding herself and treating her body with compassion.
Sonali acknowledged that this approach was not easy. Loving a body that was causing her immense pain was difficult, but she felt that changing her perspective helped her navigate the challenging period.
“I thought perhaps I should treat it with love,” she shared, reflecting on the mindset that helped her cope with the experience. Her words highlighted the importance of self-acceptance during moments when the body undergoes significant physical and emotional challenges.
Sonali was diagnosed with stage IV metastatic cancer in 2018 and underwent extensive treatment in New York, including chemotherapy and surgery. Since then, she has spoken publicly about her experience, helping bring conversations about cancer and life after diagnosis into the mainstream.
Her latest remarks offer a personal reflection on how people relate to their bodies during illness. Rather than describing recovery solely in terms of winning or losing, she emphasised understanding, acceptance and compassion.
The conversation also highlighted the emotional dimensions of living with a serious illness, beyond the medical procedures and physical discomfort involved in treatment.
*Kon Honar Crorepati*, hosted by Madhuri Dixit, premiered on October 12 on Sony Marathi and Sony LIV. Sonali's appearance on the opening episode brought an intimate and reflective moment to the show, as the actress shared lessons from a life-changing experience.
Her message was not that cancer can be overcome through positive thinking alone, but that treating oneself with kindness can be an important part of navigating a difficult journey.
Reader Comments 0