From undergoing surgery to remove 22% of her liver with an 11-centimeter tumor to continuing a two-year targeted therapy; Dipika Kakar talks about her liver cancer treatment

From bravely speaking about her liver cancer diagnosis to opening up on her ongoing two-year targeted therapy, actress Dipika Kakar has shared heartfelt details about her health journey. In a recent podcast with Bharti Singh and Haarsh Limbachiyaa, she spoke candidly about her treatment, the emotional strength it required, and how the unwavering love and support of her family have helped her stay positive through it all. Take a look: (Photo: Instagram)

In the first week of November, I’ll be undergoing my FAPI scan again. A FAPI scan is similar to a CT scan, but it’s specifically used to detect cancer cells in the body. It helps doctors understand how far the cancer may have spread before starting surgery or treatment. As for me, Alhamdulillah, the best part is that in my case, the cancer was confined to the tumor itself. During my last FAPI scan, no cancer cells were found anywhere else in the body. About 22% of my liver, which included an 11-centimeter tumor, was surgically removed, taking all the cancer along with it. (Photo: Instagram)

Since then, we have been regularly monitoring my condition through blood and tumor marker tests, and thankfully, all results have been coming back normal. However, I’m currently on oral targeted therapy, which works somewhat like chemotherapy. This treatment will continue for two years, during which we’ll stay vigilant to ensure there’s no recurrence. That’s why periodic scans are necessary to keep everything in check. (Photo: Instagram)

Honestly, my surgeon, Dr. Somnath Chattopadhyay, he’s an excellent doctor at Kokilaben Hospital and my family physician, Dr. Tushar Shah, both were equally surprised when they reviewed my reports. They told me that, despite all their years of experience, they couldn’t explain how this happened to me. Every doctor I consulted said the same thing — there’s simply no clear reason.Of course, they mentioned there might have been some kind of toxicity in the body that led to it, but only Allah truly knows. We can only make assumptions. As you know, I’ve never smoked, and my lifestyle has always been fairly balanced. Yes, I do indulge in different kinds of food once in a while, but nothing extreme or unhealthy to that level. (Photo: Instagram)

As for how it all began, I initially thought it was gallbladder pain. The discomfort had been troubling me for quite some time. I believe it started around the time I conceived Ruhaan. During pregnancy, most tests and ultrasounds are focused on the baby, ensuring everything related to the uterus and abdomen is fine. My liver function tests and blood reports always came back normal, so no one suspected anything else could be going on. After delivery, I continued having pain occasionally. The doctor thought it was acidity, so I took medication for it, and for a while, it did help. But eventually, the pain returned and this time, it was severe, on both sides. That’s when I told Shoaib that something was seriously wrong because the pain had become unbearable. (Photo: Instagram)

I decided to get a blood test done and went to see Dr. Tushar. He said, “Okay, let’s check,” and after reviewing the results, he prescribed a 10-day course of medication. After completing it, things seemed fine for the time being. You know, as I’ve said before, I’m truly blessed with wonderful people around me — a loving family, a comfortable home, and everything I need in life, Alhamdulillah. And if any health issue arises, we are fortunate enough to have access to the right doctors and treatments. That, in itself, is a huge blessing. There are so many people who suffer but struggle to reach proper medical care. Realizing this has made me deeply grateful and more aware of how important it is to appreciate what life has given us. (Photo: Instagram)

Honestly, I’ve always been an emotional person, but after going through all this, I’ve become even more sensitive. The kind of love and care I received in the hospital was beyond words. The nurses, the housekeeping staff, the parents and attendants of other patients — everyone came up to me with warmth, saying things like, “You’ll be fine, we’re here for you.” Many of them called me Simar, and that made me feel so proud. People often apologize for addressing me by that name, but I always tell them not to — because that’s something I’ve earned. Even after all these years, if someone still remembers me as Simar, it’s a huge honor. It means the role is truly connected with people. That show was something else — it left a lasting impact, and it will always hold a special place in my heart. (Photo: Instagram)

I’m a very homely person. Whenever I used to pack up from a shoot, my first thought was always to head straight home — nowhere else. I love shopping for my family, my house, and myself. That’s just my nature, a bit old-fashioned, you could say. I’ve always preferred living that way, so it doesn’t take any extra effort. Both of us share this mindset — once work is done, we go home and spend quality time with our family. If someone gave us the choice between going to a party or sitting on our carpet with a cup of tea, talking in soft light, we’d always pick the latter. I feel that in today’s fast-paced world, where everyone is constantly rushing, taking a moment to pause and connect with your loved ones has become truly essential.