Recognized as one of the most accomplished actresses in Indian cinema, Sharmila Tagore revealed her cancer diagnosis during her recent appearance on the latest episode of Koffee with Karan.
Expressing apprehension about her health, Tagore shared that her battle with cancer led to her decision to decline a supporting role in Karan Johar’s film, Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani. Karan, the filmmaker, expressed remorse over not being able to collaborate with her on the project. Consequently, the role was eventually undertaken by Shabana Azmi, who portrayed the grandmother of Alia Bhatt’s character and had a parallel romantic storyline with Dharmendra’s character.
Reflecting on the situation, Karan expressed, “I’d offered Sharmila ji the part played by Shabana ji; she was my first choice. But because of health reasons at that time, she couldn’t say yes. It is a regret I have. ” Sharmila clarified that during the peak of the COVID pandemic, she had reservations about taking the risk, particularly after her cancer diagnosis. She emphasized, “It will be a regret, and it is something I hope that we can make up for and work together.”
Despite the challenges, Sharmila Tagore made a comeback to acting this year with a supporting role in the Disney+ Hotstar film, Gulmohar, alongside Manoj Bajpayee. The film is believed to be inspired by Monsoon Wedding.
Sharmila Tagore, adorned with numerous accolades, including two National Film Awards, a Filmfare Award, a Filmfare OTT Award, and the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award, received the Padma Bhushan from the Indian government in 2013. This esteemed award, India’s third-highest civilian honor, acknowledged her substantial contributions to Indian culture through performing arts.