Sunil Shetty, Mika Singh, and Dr. Krishna Champion Compassionate Cancer Care and Community Welfare
The Indian Cancer Institute (ICI), which recently opened its doors in GK1, Delhi, is a beacon of hope for those battling cancer. Offering a wide range of services including chemotherapy, surgery, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, ICI provides state-of-the-art care even for patients in advanced stages of cancer. With a commitment to honesty, integrity, and compassion, the hospital prioritizes personalized treatment plans that cater to the specific needs of each patient, making them feel supported and cared for.
Dr. Tarang Krishna, one of the founding members of ICI, shared the hospital’s core philosophy: “All the doctors empathize with the patients. We are not concerned about work hours; patients are like family to us.” This compassionate approach extends beyond regular treatment, as ICI offers free services to underprivileged patients every Friday from 3 PM to 5 PM. For those below the poverty line, consultations, chemotherapy, and even surgeries are available at no cost. “Any laborer, tea seller, or daily wage worker below the poverty line is eligible for free treatment,” Dr. Krishna emphasized. “We will not charge a penny for consultations, treatments, or chemotherapy.”
At the grand inauguration, Bollywood actor Sunil Shetty, who was deeply involved in the initiative, expressed his pride in supporting the hospital’s mission. “In cancer treatment, you’re not just dealing with the patient, but with their entire family,” Sunil stated, highlighting ICI’s holistic approach to healthcare. He also spoke about the significance of early detection, noting that advancements in medical technology have improved cancer detection significantly. “Thirty years ago, detection rates were far lower. Today, early detection and regular check-ups are vital in preventing and treating cancer effectively.”
Sunil also discussed the concerning impact of virtual worlds on younger generations, saying, “Our kids are drifting away from physical activities and nature, spending more time on social media.” He emphasized the need for a balanced, healthy lifestyle and said, “We need to live clean, live healthy, and live happy,” underscoring the importance of physical fitness in cancer prevention.
Echoing these sentiments, Dr. Krishna highlighted that pursuing hobbies and staying engaged in activities one enjoys can play a crucial role in healing. “When you’re absorbed in your passion or hobby, you’re so focused that you’re unaware of anything else,” he explained. At ICI, this philosophy is reflected in the design of each patient room, which is equipped with a music system, subtle lighting, and a desk to keep patients engaged and comfortable. “We also incorporate mantra chanting to create a peaceful and healing atmosphere,” Dr. Krishna added.
Renowned singer Mika Singh, who has been associated with ICI through his NGO Divine Touch, also attended the inauguration. Mika spoke passionately about his dedication to societal welfare, stating, “To contribute to society is everyone’s responsibility.” He highlighted how music, has been a source of comfort for patients, especially during the challenging times of COVID-19. “Music is therapy—it heals, it lifts spirits. Listening to music can help you stay positive and fit,” Mika explained, aligning with ICI’s holistic approach, where emotional well-being is as crucial as physical health.
However, Dr. Tarang Krishna took the opportunity to highlight Mika’s exceptional contributions to empowering abandoned girls through skill and vocational training. Dr. Krishna praised Mika’s vital role in transforming the lives of young women aged 16 to 22, offering them not only training but also job placements, which equip them to build a self-sufficient future.
“Mika’s support extends far beyond providing training,” Dr. Krishna explained. “He also covers all wedding expenses for these girls, ensuring they begin their new lives with dignity and security.” While Mika remained humble and refrained from discussing his NGO, his dedication to the cause was clear. His involvement, including financially supporting weddings, has had a profound impact on many individuals.
Mika’s approach, which includes both vocational training and the commitment to securing the future of these girls through marriage and employment, reflects his genuine dedication to societal welfare. He believes that true charity is about empathy and action, not just monetary donations. As Mika himself put it, “Charity doesn’t mean you need to give abundantly. Even little contributions make a big difference.” This philosophy underscores the importance of small, meaningful acts of kindness in creating lasting change.
The bond between Sunil Shetty and Mika Singh was palpable during the event. Mika reminisced about their first meeting in 1999, when Sunil had joined him on stage for the first time, placing his hand on Mika’s shoulder. “It was a big moment for me,” Mika recalled, reflecting on how their friendship has flourished over the years. Sunil, in turn, praised Mika for his consistent dedication to social causes. “Mika has never changed. He is always genuine and grounded,” Sunil said, showing their mutual admiration.
In his speech, Sunil emphasized his personal belief in the value of giving back to society: “I believe in what you get, you make a living, but what you give, you make a life.” He urged people to recognize the true value of contributing to causes that make a difference, highlighting that charity is not just about financial support. “Ham apni NGO ke baare mein baat karte hain taki logon tak information pahuche. Lekin sab sochte hain ki ham apni PR ke liye kar rahe hain, yeh galat hai,” Sunil remarked, stressing that the motivation behind these efforts should always be genuine and rooted in concern for others. He highlighted that true impact comes from collective effort, where each person plays a vital role in shaping a better, more compassionate world. He said, “Every individual has the power to make a difference. We all need to have empathy. It is everyone’s responsibility, not just that of celebrities, to contribute towards positive change.” His words emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in creating meaningful societal shifts.
Sunil Shetty is associated with Vipla Foundation, which focuses on empowering children from vulnerable communities. He shared his information in the foundation’s work, particularly its commitment to supporting children with disabilities and helping them build dignified, self-reliant lives. His philanthropic efforts undoubtedly align with ICI’s goals of providing holistic care.
As the event drew to a close, the connection between Sunil, Mika, and Dr. Krishna highlighted the deep sense of community and shared mission at ICI. Together, they are setting a new standard in cancer care—one that emphasizes compassion, community, and holistic healing. Through their combined efforts, they continue to offer more than just medical treatment; they provide a path toward dignity, hope, and a brighter future for those affected by cancer.
We wish Mika Singh, Dr. Tarang Krishna and Sunil Shetty all the best in their continued efforts towards community service. Their unwavering dedication to improving lives and empowering individuals is truly inspiring. May their initiatives continue to bring hope, dignity, and positive change to those who need it the most.
