In mid-2020, actress Hamsa Nandini was diagnosed with Grade 3 carcinoma. It was a high-grade breast cancer during which "cells look abnormal and may grow or spread more aggressively." Marking Woman's Day, Nandini has opened up about her battle with cancer.

"I was about to resume a film shoot post-lockdown in 2020 when the diagnosis happened," she says, recalling her encounter with what was to be a health-related ordeal. Since her mother, too, had breast cancer, it was tough for Nandini to get over the emotional baggage of the past. Confusion, dread, and anxiety enveloped her in the immediate aftermath of the diagnosis.

A surgery was conducted to remove a malignant tumour. In all, sixteen cycles of chemotherapy were held.

Just when she thought it was well past behind her, the actress was diagnosed with BRCA1 (Hereditary Breast Cancer) because of a genetic mutation. It meant that she had a 70% chance of a relapse. Last year, she underwent invasive prophylactic surgeries as part of an elaborate treatment.

She accepted everything and took whatever challenges that came her way with a smile. "I can't emphasize the importance of early diagnosis, a supportive network of competent doctors and her family, and a positive mindset," Nandini says, trying to spread awareness.

Hamsa Nandini has established Yamini Cancer Foundation to spread awareness so that healthy folks and cancer patients alike know the importance of "self-care, early detection, and support." Yamini is the name of her mother.

Since she feels most alive in front of the camera, Nandini is all set to make a comeback to the big screen this year. She has got quite a few projects up her sleeve this year and next year.