Life in a Metro' actress Nafisa Ali faces Cancer Battle Again: Stage 4 diagnosis forces return to Chemotherapy
Digital Desk
Veteran actress Nafisa Ali, renowned for her performances in films like 'Life in a Metro', 'Junoon' and 'Major Saab', has courageously revealed that cancer has returned to her life after six years. The 67-year-old actress shared an emotional update on social media, disclosing that she has been diagnosed with stage 4 peritoneal cancer and must resume chemotherapy as surgery is no longer possible.
Emotional Social Media Announcement
On September 15, 2025, Nafisa Ali took to Instagram to share the heartbreaking news with her followers. In a deeply personal post, she revealed a touching conversation with her children about mortality and family bonds. The actress quoted her children asking, "Who will we turn to when you're gone?" to which she responded, "Turn to each other. That is my greatest gift - siblings who share the same love and memories. Protect one another, and remember: your bond is stronger than anything life can bring."
Accompanying this profound message, Nafisa wrote in her caption: "A new chapter in my journey from today. I had my PET scan yesterday… so back to chemotherapy as surgery is not possible. Believe me I love life."
Previous Cancer Battle and Recovery
The actress first faced this formidable opponent in November 2018 when she was diagnosed with stage 3 peritoneal and ovarian cancer. After undergoing intensive treatment including surgery and chemotherapy, Nafisa was declared cancer-free in 2019, marking a significant victory in her health journey.
During her initial battle, she had maintained an optimistic outlook while sharing updates about her treatment with fans and followers. The actress had to undergo regular check-ups every three months following her recovery, as is standard protocol for cancer survivors.
Current Health Status and Treatment Plan
Recent PET scan results have revealed that the cancer has now progressed to stage 4, indicating that the disease has spread throughout her abdomen and possibly to other organs. Medical experts have determined that surgical intervention is no longer viable due to the extensive spread of the cancer.
Stage 4 peritoneal cancer represents the most advanced form of the disease, where cancer cells have metastasized to distant organs or tissues through the bloodstream or lymphatic system. At this stage, treatment typically focuses on managing symptoms, slowing disease progression, and maintaining quality of life rather than achieving a cure.
Nafisa's treatment plan now involves resuming chemotherapy, with her medical team sending blood samples to the United States for advanced testing to determine the most effective medication protocol. The actress has prepared herself mentally for the side effects of chemotherapy, including hair loss, approaching the treatment with characteristic positivity.
About Nafisa Ali's Illustrious Career
Born on January 18, 1957, in Kolkata, Nafisa Ali has led a remarkable multifaceted life. Before entering the entertainment industry, she was India's national swimming champion from 1972 to 1974 and won the Miss India title in 1976, later representing India at the Miss International contest where she secured the second runner-up position.
Her acting career began with Shyam Benegal's acclaimed film 'Junoon' (1979) alongside Shashi Kapoor. She went on to establish herself as a versatile actress with notable performances in films including:
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Major Saab (1998) with Amitabh Bachchan
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Bewafaa (2005)
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Life in a Metro (2007)
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Guzaarish (2010)
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Yamla Pagla Deewana (2011)
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Big B (2007) - Malayalam film with Mammootty
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Uunchai (2022) - her most recent filmi
Beyond entertainment, Nafisa Ali has been actively involved in politics, having contested Lok Sabha elections and served with various political parties including the Samajwadi Party, Indian National Congress, and currently the All India Trinamool Congress.
Family and Personal Life
Nafisa Ali is married to Colonel Ravinder Singh Sodhi, an Arjuna Award-winning golfer, and they have three children: daughters Pia and Armana, and son Ajit. Her recent social media post particularly emphasized the importance of family bonds and sibling relationships, reflecting her deep concern for her children's wellbeing in the face of her health challenges.