Here’s How Hrithik Reacted to Rakesh Roshan’s Cancer Diagnosis

The director was diagnosed with early stage squamous cell carcinoma of the throat last year.

Rakesh Roshan leaves the hospital post cancer surgery with Hrithik and Pinky Roshan.

(Photo Courtesy: Twitter)

2019 began on a sombre note for the Roshans. Hrithik announced on social media that his father Rakesh Roshan had been diagnosed with throat cancer. The War actor brought in his birthday on 10 January with his family in the hospital where his father was recovering from surgery.

While the family has chosen to keep the matter private, Rakesh Roshan recently opened up about his battle with the disease in an interview with SpotboyE. When asked how he dealt with the news, Rakesh stoically said,

“Well, I have had my share of hardships, In fact, we all in my family have undergone health issues. My wife was unwell in between. My father-in-law was indisposed. Sunaina had cancer, Hrithik underwent a brain surgery. I used to feel dizzy at times but I never sat on it. I am never the one to complain. I am not a cynical or pessimistic person. I have been lucky also.”

Rakesh Roshan, Director

He revealed that the diagnosis was the result of a chance meeting with an ENT surgeon when he had gone to visit a friend at Hinduja Hospital in Mumbai. The doctor advised him to get a biopsy for a blister that he had which refused to do despite multiple prescriptions. By 15 December last year, Rakesh had received the news that he had cancer. He spent New Year’s Eve partying with his friends who were none the wiser about his condition. The director underwent surgery on 8 January, followed by three weeks of chemotherapy.

He said that Hrithik had a similar reaction. He explained,

“As I said, these things are not new for us. So, we address these issues and go all out to rectify them. Never get into a depression. Live life. Cancer is just a big name.”

Rakesh Roshan

Rakesh ended on a positive note saying that while he lost 10 kg during his treatment, his stamina has returned. He says he is back to training at the gym and expects to regain his fitness levels soon. He has also resumed work and is looking after the pre-production stages of his next directorial Krrish 4.