Mumbai, March 4 Actor Rajshri Deshpande revealed on Wednesday that she has been diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer and said she is now recovering well following a successful surgery.
The actor, known for her critically acclaimed work in "Sacred Games" and "Trial by Fire", shared the news on Instagram alongside a photo from the hospital.
The actor said the post comes after she found the “courage” to tell her parents that she has been diagnosed with Infiltrating Ductal Carcinoma (NOS), a Grade 1 breast cancer.
“We fortunately caught this early in a routine checkup, which gave us a fighting chance. Numerous tests and surgery felt like a rollercoaster ride, but trust me, it was everyone’s love and support that carried me through,” Deshpande wrote.
“And seeing my Aai and papa’s faces after surgery melted my fears into unbreakable strength. With everyone’s support, I feel I am ready to take on the world,” she said.
The actor, who has also starred in films such as “Manto”, “The Sky is Pink”, and “Joram”, further said that she is recovering “beautifully” and expects to be home soon. She praised the doctors at Kokilaben Hospital for their expert care in making her journey gentler.
“...Your love truly is my greatest medicine. Here’s to healing, hope, and all the brighter days ahead,” Deshpande said.
In her personal life, the 43-year-old actor is a dedicated social worker who has adopted several drought-prone villages in Maharashtra.
Through her Nabhangan Foundation, she has also worked towards restoring water supplies, building toilets, providing education for girls, and empowering women.
Deshpande assured that her plans remain on track, and stated that 2026 began with ambitious goals for building more schools, river revival, and that her diagnosis hasn't stopped her.
“…I felt unstoppable, full of purpose and dreams. But nothing will change. Everything will happen as planned. And even in more beautiful ways, I promise,” she said.
“I’m walking into this adventure with faith, courage, and a heart full of love. I know it’s just a chapter, not my whole story. My energy, compassion, and fierce determination to serve, create, and stand by those who need a hand. Now, as a survivor, a social worker, and a human being, it all feels even more important. And we also need to do a lot of work on raising awareness about breast cancer,” the actor added.
Deshpande’s friends and colleagues from the film industry, including filmmaker Kiran Rao, actors Adarsh Gourav, Tilotama Shome, Chhaya Kadam, and Shahana Goswami, sent wishes and messages of strength.
“Wishing you a smooth recovery, and hoping you’re back to health and being the champion that you are as soon as possible. All my love,” Rao commented.
Gourav wrote, “Speedy recovery and prayers.”