Chennai, December 22, 2025
Kannada cinema icon Shiva Rajkumar has spoken publicly about his emotional battle with cancer and the life-changing surgery that helped him overcome the disease. The actor shared his experience during a recent promotional event for his upcoming film ‘45’ held in Chennai.
Recalling the difficult phase, Shiva Rajkumar revealed that he traveled to the United States on December 18, 2024, for cancer surgery, uncertain about what the future held. He admitted that the moment was overwhelming, with emotions running high as members of the media and well-wishers gathered to see him off.
“I was very emotional. I didn’t even know whether I would return,” the actor said, adding that despite medical assurances, fear lingered in his mind. His wife, daughter, and his daughter’s friend accompanied him during the journey.
The surgery was performed on December 24, after which the actor regained consciousness several hours later. He described waking up to find his wife holding his hand, an emotional moment that left him in tears. Shiva Rajkumar credited his doctors for giving him a second chance at life, comparing them to deities for restoring his health.
Speaking about his recovery, the actor said it took several days to mentally process the experience. He became emotional again upon returning to India, noting that even a simple phone call asking about his well-being brings tears to his eyes. Expressing gratitude, he said that while wealth can be earned, the love he has received from people is priceless.
During the event, Shiva Rajkumar also remembered his late younger brother Puneeth Rajkumar, who passed away suddenly at the age of 46. He spoke about his brother’s early life, achievements, and close bond with their parents, saying that it felt as though Puneeth was called back when his parents needed him most.
On the professional front, the actor revealed that in ‘45’, he plays a woman for a portion of the film. He shared that he entered the set holding his wife’s hand while dressed in character, leaving onlookers surprised. His wife, he added, was delighted by the moment.
Shiva Rajkumar also confirmed that he will soon begin shooting for a Tamil film, further fueling speculation about his possible involvement in Rajinikanth’s ‘Jailer 2’.
The film ‘45’ is set to release in Kannada on December 25, followed by Tamil and Hindi releases on January 1. Alongside Shiva Rajkumar, the film stars Upendra and Bazee Shetty in key roles.
