Manish Malhotra’s highly anticipated fashion show, “Namo Bharat,” is set to unfold in New Delhi today, serving as a poignant tribute to cancer survivors. With a focus on celebrating strength, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit, the event will spotlight the journeys of three remarkable women from Bollywood who have battled and overcome cancer: filmmaker and author Tahira Kashyap, and actresses Sonali Bendre and Hina Khan.
Malhotra, a stalwart in the Indian fashion industry, has curated this event to honor the courage of cancer survivors and to emphasize the importance of hope and unity. The show’s main highlight will feature Tahira, Sonali, and Hina walking the ramp, embodying the sheer tenacity required to overcome such life-altering challenges.
In addition to the celebrated cancer survivors, the runway will also see appearances by Bollywood’s charming duo Kartik Aaryan and Triptii Dimri, known for their roles in “Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3”. However, the emotional heart of the event lies in the participation of Tahira, Sonali, and Hina, who have all faced cancer head-on and become symbols of inspiration to many.
“Being part of an event that honors real-life fighters and celebrates the strength and unity that epitomize India is a privilege,” expressed the Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 actors in a joint statement accompanying a poster for the event. The fashion show aims not only to celebrate these individuals but also to pay homage to India’s rich textile heritage and the spirit of its people.
To provide context, Hina Khan has recently been open about her journey with stage 3 breast cancer, which she was diagnosed with in June 2024. She has been actively sharing her experiences and treatment updates on social media, keeping her fans abreast of her condition. Sonali Bendre’s battle with stage 4 Metastatic Cancer became public knowledge in 2018, and after undergoing treatment in New York, she reached remission in 2021. Tahira Kashyap’s diagnosis of stage 0 breast cancer, known as Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS), led her through a demanding treatment regimen comprising chemotherapy and a mastectomy, which she completed in 2019.
Hina Khan recently took to Instagram to share her enthusiasm about the upcoming event, expressing her readiness to stand alongside other fighters and celebrate their joint strength.
.
Manish Malhotra, acclaimed not just for his luxurious designs but also for his contributions to social causes, continues to bridge the gap between fashion and philanthropy. His fashion shows are known for their splendor and are often woven with messages of hope and resilience. This show, in particular, seeks to empower women by highlighting their victories over severe health battles.
Malhotra is also the visionary behind the high-end makeup brand MyGlamm and has been actively involved in numerous social initiatives. Notably, his long-term association with the Mijwan Welfare Society exemplifies his dedication to empowering women in rural India through education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. Through organizing fashion shows and providing design training, Malhotra has significantly contributed to the NGO’s mission. In 2021, he extended his philanthropic efforts by collaborating with the Swades Foundation, an NGO dedicated to rural development in Maharashtra, and launched a line of handwoven saris, with a portion of the proceeds supporting the foundation’s initiatives.
On the professional front, Sonali Bendre was last seen in the ZEE5 series “The Broken News,” while Hina Khan recently starred with Gippi Grewal in the Punjabi comedy film “Shinda Shinda No Papa.” Tahira Kashyap’s directorial debut “Sharmajee Ki Beti” earned critical acclaim and has been well-received on Amazon Prime Video.
As the “Namo Bharat” event takes center stage, it serves as a powerful reminder that resilience and courage are integral to the human experience. By featuring these esteemed cancer survivors, Manish Malhotra sends a resounding message of hope and celebrates the remarkable strength of women who have triumphed against all odds.
With heartfelt symbolism and the blend of cultural heritage, Malhotra’s fashion show promises to be an unforgettable tribute to the spirit of survival and a testimony to the unyielding unity of India.
