Over a decade ago, Tanvi Shah, celebrated for her vocal prowess and remarkable achievements in the music industry, spoke to The Hindu, stating, “When God throws things at you, you should not disrespect it.” At that time, Shah was a prominent figure, having been the first Indian woman to clinch a Grammy Award for AR Rahman’s globally renowned track ‘Jai Ho’ from the film Slumdog Millionaire. Her career was flourishing with numerous performances and film song recordings.
Concerts demanded her relentless energy even up until September last year when her health sent her a forewarning. Despite a doctor’s dismissive reassurance, Tanvi continued her busy schedule, traveling incessantly from September 2023 to March 2024 for her musical commitments. Yet, an inner whisper that something was amiss, gnawed at her peace.
Concerned, Tanvi sought a second opinion and subsequently underwent a battery of tests. The diagnosis was life-altering: breast cancer, on March 27, 2024. Faced with a harsh and grueling treatment regime, which included surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation sessions, Tanvi candidly admits, “The process was difficult; my mind went for a toss. It was a task to even get through the day, and I felt damaged. I could not hold a pen; my hands would shiver. I couldn’t journal, I couldn’t write my songs.”
The cancer treatment journey brought physical and emotional tolls; her struggles amplified by second-degree burns from radiation and significant hair loss. “I could not get myself to look at a mirror for three months,” she shares, capturing the depth of her struggle with losing something as integral to self-identity as hair. For Tanvi, this period became an unexpected teacher, reshaping her perspective on strength and vulnerability. “Believe me, for women, our hair is our ego. Also, I usually don’t like asking for help. What I’ve realised thanks to this phase is that it’s okay to ask for help and it’s okay to not be strong.”
In these difficult weeks, Tanvi retreated into a metaphorical cocoon, resisting social interactions despite doctors advising otherwise. She was weary of unsolicited advice and stories of others who had endured similar battles. “All I wanted was some peace of mind and courage to push through this,” she admits.
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During this taxing period, what restored some semblance of tranquility were her regular work-out sessions at Primal Patterns and meditation through the Shambavi rituals. “I was at peace during those days,” reflects Shah, indicating how these practices became her refuge.
For weeks, Tanvi’s life, which revolved around music, became devoid of sound. “Mentally, I was not okay to switch on the shruti box….” she explains. However, post three weeks of completing radiation, Tanvi signals a return to her musical roots. “I am doing my riyaz for Hindustani classical. I am also trying to create rhythms for the new songs that I wish to write. I took out a pen from my fountain pen collection to write only recently….”
Calls for performances have started trickling in, as fans eagerly request her ‘Tansha’ band to serenade them with Spanish, Arabic, and world music. “I’m blessed that the few who have called me have been patient and understanding,” says Tanvi, expressing gratitude for the kindness and patience extended to her during this period.
The resilient artist is promising a powerful re-emergence, assuring her audience that her presence will return with invigorated spirit. “I haven’t disappeared,” she announces reassuringly, “I will come back and when I do, I will come back super strong. Now, I feel like I have got a second life.”
As Tanvi Shah prepares to reclaim her space in the music scene, her story serves as an inspiring testament to unwavering courage and the healing power of music, even in life’s most testing times.
