Kolkata, 10 February 2026: Reinforcing the powerful message that cancer is a chapter—not the end of the story—Manipal Hospital Dhakuria, a unit of one of India’s largest healthcare providers, the Manipal Hospital Group, organised “Celebrating Cancer Warriors,” a heartfelt cancer survivors’ meet that honoured resilience, recovery, and the triumph of the human spirit.
The event was graced by Dr. Shubhayu Banerjee, Advisor, Comprehensive Cancer Care Center & Senior Consultant – GI Oncology, Manipal Hospital Dhakuria, along with a distinguished panel of oncologists and clinicians. The gathering brought together cancer survivors, caregivers, doctors, and community members on a common platform of hope, courage, and awareness.
Cancer remains one of the most significant health challenges globally and in India, with millions of new cases reported annually. However, experts highlighted that advancements in early diagnosis, precision oncology, and multidisciplinary treatment have dramatically improved survival rates and quality of life. Survivors’ meets such as this play a vital role in dispelling fear, reducing stigma, and reinforcing that cancer, when detected early, is often treatable and even curable.
A deeply moving segment of the programme featured survivors sharing their personal journeys of strength and determination. Many spoke about reclaiming their lives post-treatment—pursuing passions such as painting, photography, and creative arts—demonstrating that life beyond cancer can be purposeful and fulfilling. Their stories served as inspiration for patients currently undergoing treatment.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Shubhayu Banerjee said,
“Cancer today is no longer a taboo or a condition shrouded in fear. With medical advancements and timely intervention, many cancers are curable, and survivors are living longer with better quality of life. Meets like these remind patients that life after cancer can be meaningful and empowering.”
Mr. Dilip Kumar Roy, Hospital Director, Manipal Hospital Dhakuria, added,
“We are committed to delivering comprehensive cancer care through advanced technology, expert clinicians, and a patient-first approach. Our focus goes beyond treatment to survivorship, emotional well-being, and community awareness.”
Sharing his journey, Pranav Sarkar, a 68-year-old survivor, said he no longer identifies as a cancer patient. After undergoing prostate surgery in 2020 without the need for chemotherapy or radiation, he has remained healthy for six years. He emphasised the importance of early detection, urging men above 50 to undergo annual PSA screening.
Another inspiring story came from Abhishek Nandy (name changed), a 14-year-old patient who battled a leg tumour later diagnosed as cancer. After being referred in critical condition, he underwent year-long treatment under Dr. Ashutosh Daga. He and his family expressed deep gratitude for the care, compassion, and hope extended during his recovery journey.
The event saw participation from leading specialists including:
Dr. Bastab Ghosh (Urology), Dr. Ashutosh Daga (Medical Oncology), Dr. Shreya Bhattacharya (Head & Neck Surgery/Oncology), Dr. Sagnik Ray (Surgical Oncology), Dr. Jasashwi Chakraborty (Hematology), Dr. Paromita Roy (Gynaecologic Oncology), and Dr. Anirban Halder (Radiation Oncology).
The programme was further strengthened by the virtual presence of Dr. Soumen Basu, Senior Consultant – Radiation Oncology, and Dr. Tanmoy Kumar Mondal, Consultant – Medical Oncology—underscoring the hospital’s multidisciplinary and patient-centric approach.
Through initiatives like “Celebrating Cancer Warriors,” Manipal Hospital Dhakuria continues to champion awareness, compassion, and confidence—ensuring that every cancer patient receives not just advanced treatment, but enduring support and hope.
