Veteran actor and founder of the road safety movement, Nirapad Sarak Chai (We Demand Safe Road), Ilias Kanchan, is showing signs of improvement while undergoing treatment in London.
He has been receiving medical care at a clinic on Harley Street for quite some time after being diagnosed with a brain tumour. Currently, Kanchan is staying at the London residence of his son-in-law, Ariful Islam.
Speaking to The Daily Star on Sunday afternoon, Ariful Islam shared an update on the actor’s health. “Abbu is better than before,” he said. “By the grace of Allah and everyone’s prayers, there has been some improvement in his physical condition. However, he is still very tired. His body has gone through a lot.”
When asked whether Kanchan is now able to speak, Ariful explained that there has also been progress. “He can speak now. Earlier, he spoke very little, and talking caused him discomfort. After the surgery, he had almost stopped speaking altogether. But now he talks — not a lot, but reasonably well.”
Ariful added that Kanchan remains emotionally connected to Bangladesh. “He is deeply grateful to the people of the country. He has learned that so many people have prayed for him and enquired about his health. He is overwhelmed by this love and has expressed his gratitude and affection for everyone,” he said. “He also thinks about the country and sincerely prays for the well-being of Bangladesh and its people.”
Regarding his treatment, Ariful said that Kanchan’s radiotherapy has been completed, followed by a month of rest. “He is now taking five oral chemotherapy tablets every month, which will continue for six months. Alongside the medication, he has to undergo regular MRI scans, body check-ups and several other tests every month,” he added.
“We have received immense love and prayers from everyone. We request continued prayers so that Abbu can make a full recovery.”Ariful also spoke about how Kanchan spent his recent birthday. “He did not want to cut a cake. We had to insist just to wish him. Later, we took him outside of London, where we arranged a small, picnic-like outing with the family. He truly enjoyed that day.”
Ilias Kanchan is one of the most successful leading men of Bangladesh’s golden era of cinema. He holds the record for acting in numerous commercially successful films, most notably the iconic “Beder Meye Josna”, which made history in Dhallywood. His performances in films such as “Bheja Chokh” moved audiences to tears, and he found success across social, romantic and folk genres.
In recognition of his contributions, Kanchan has received the Ekushey Padak, National Film Awards, and a Lifetime Achievement Award at the National Film Awards.
