Shiva Rajkumar reveals cancer battle
Kannada superstar Shiva Rajkumar has opened up about a challenging chapter in his life that almost made him walk away from one of his biggest projects yet. The actor, who is currently promoting Ram Charan’s upcoming film Peddi, revealed that he was diagnosed with cancer shortly after signing on for the movie and had to fly to the United States for treatment.
Speaking at a promotional event, Shiva shared that he was immediately hooked when director Buchi Babu Sana narrated the script to him. ‘I loved the story from the first narration. I even spoke to Ram Charan about it that same day,’ he said, according to Midday. But life had other plans — the diagnosis came soon after, and he was left unsure if he could continue with the film.
The team’s support that kept him going
What could have been a career setback turned into a story of unwavering support. Shiva revealed that instead of replacing him, the entire Peddi team chose to wait for his recovery. ‘They waited for me. I nearly quit, but Buchi Babu and the entire team told me to focus on my health first. They said they would wait,’ the actor shared.
This gesture of patience and loyalty left Shiva deeply grateful. He admitted that in the film industry, where schedules are tight and budgets are massive, such decisions are rare. ‘It’s not easy for a producer or director to pause a project. But they did it for me. I can’t thank them enough,’ he added.
A comeback story in the making
After successfully completing his treatment in the US, Shiva Rajkumar is now back on set and ready to bring his A-game to Peddi. The film, which also stars Ram Charan in a lead role, is one of the most anticipated releases of the year. Industry insiders say that Shiva’s role in the movie is pivotal, and his return has only added to the excitement around the project.
The actor’s resilience and the team’s support have turned a personal struggle into a heartwarming tale of solidarity. As he continues his promotional duties, Shiva’s story is inspiring fans and colleagues alike, proving that sometimes, the best things in life are worth waiting for.