Tapash Roy, ATNN: World Cancer Day was observed with quiet dignity and collective resolve at the Saroj Gupta Cancer Centre & Research Institute (SGCCRI), Thakurpukur, on 4 February 2026, as the institution came together to reaffirm its long-standing commitment to compassionate and inclusive cancer care.
Held at the SGCCRI Auditorium in the afternoon, the commemorative programme resonated deeply with the global theme for 2025–2027, “United by Unique,” which places individuals and their stories at the heart of the fight against cancer. The observance reflected this spirit by foregrounding lived experiences, empathy, and the shared responsibility of society in reducing the cancer burden.
The programme opened on a soulful note with a vocal performance by Smt. Sreeradha Bandhyapadhya, whose rendition set a reflective and hopeful tone for the afternoon. This was followed by the screening of the short film “Heal in Harmony,” directed by Smt. Jaysree Mukherjee, which sensitively portrayed the emotional landscapes of illness, healing, and human resilience. The film drew warm appreciation from the audience for its poignant narrative and gentle visual language.
Adding a moving dimension to the event were cultural performances by children undergoing treatment and cancer survivors, whose expressions of courage, creativity, and joy stood as living testaments to the human spirit’s capacity to endure and transform. Their performances were met with sustained applause, underscoring the emotional connection forged between performers and audience alike.
An interactive session with cancer survivors formed the heart of the programme, as personal stories of struggle, hope, and recovery were shared with honesty and grace. These narratives not only inspired those present but also reinforced the importance of patient-centred care, emotional support, and equitable access to treatment.
Founded in 1973 by Dr. Saroj Gupta, SGCCRI has grown from a modest 25-bedded welfare home into a 311-bedded comprehensive cancer centre, remaining steadfast in its mission to serve the underprivileged. With a significant proportion of its indoor beds offered free of cost, the institution continues to embody the principles of inclusivity and social responsibility.
The World Cancer Day observance at SGCCRI thus became more than a ceremonial occasion; it emerged as a shared moment of reflection, solidarity, and renewed commitment to healing—where medicine, art, and human connection converged in harmony.
