Actor Vivek Oberoi became emotional while attending the Cancer Patients Aid Association’s (CPAA) Cancer Rose Day 2026 event in Mumbai on September 22. The actor, who has been associated with the organisation for more than two decades, spoke passionately about the importance of supporting children battling cancer and providing assistance to families struggling with the financial and emotional burden of treatment. Reflecting on his long association with CPAA, Vivek said, “First of all, I am very happy and grateful to all of you for coming here to promote such an important cause—cancer. Today, on 'Cancer Rose Day,' awareness is being raised about the situation of children suffering from cancer.”
Speaking about his association with CPAA, Vivek revealed that he has been part of the organisation’s journey for nearly 25 years. “This marks perhaps my 24th or 25th year with the Cancer Patients Aid Association (CPAA); I have spent half my life with this family,” he said. The actor spoke about witnessing the struggles of children from financially disadvantaged families and the impact cancer can have on an entire household. “It brings me great joy because I have witnessed the journeys of so many children—many from very poor backgrounds facing such difficult situations. Cancer is a very expensive illness; it causes suffering not just for the individual but for the entire family.” Vivek added that through CPAA, he has been able to serve many people over the years, saying, “I am very happy, and I pray that God always keeps me worthy and capable of continuing this service.”
The event became particularly emotional for Vivek as he recalled the journey of a young cancer survivor, Sara, whom he had known since she was a little girl. Speaking about her transformation from a child battling cancer to someone now entering the entertainment industry, the actor said, “I am so happy. I remember holding a two-and-a-half-year-old girl in my arms—I have so many photos of her from back then, that tiny, little child. Today, as she was speaking, tears came to my eyes—tears of pride.” Vivek recalled how Sara had always dreamed of performing. “I used to invite her to my birthday celebrations every year along with the other children, and she would always say, ‘I want to dance, I want to act; I’m attending these classes, I’m entering that contest.’” Despite coming from a difficult financial background and losing her father, Sara continued pursuing her ambitions and participating in reality shows and competitions.
Vivek expressed immense pride at seeing how far she had come. “She never gave up. She came from a very humble background—her father had passed away, and they didn't have much financial strength—yet she never gave up. Today, she has become successful; her first film is happening. I can't even tell you how proud I am. My heart is filled with joy. I feel this was the greatest birthday gift I received this year,” he said. He then turned his attention towards the larger challenge faced by children undergoing cancer treatment. “The fight against cancer is incredibly difficult and expensive for these 50 children; many simply cannot afford the treatment. So, I made a resolve—and I believe that when a resolve is made with a sincere heart, it comes to fruition,” Vivek added.
The actor also reflected on his own career achievements and explained why moments like these mean more to him than professional awards. “I don't know, I’ve won maybe 60 or 70 awards in my career—some for business, some for acting—but what award could be better than this?” Vivek said, visibly emotional. “These are the living, breathing, talking awards of my life; these are my greatest accomplishments. Everyone has a résumé, after all.” For Vivek, the opportunity to witness cancer survivors rebuild their lives and chase their dreams represents a different kind of achievement—one that goes beyond the entertainment industry.
Concluding his message on Cancer Rose Day, Vivek urged people to dedicate at least one day every year to helping others. “As we observe 'Rose Day' for cancer patients today, the message I’d like to share with all my fans is this: just as a rose brings fragrance and beauty into your life, you should dedicate at least one of the 365 days of the year to service,” he said. “Dedicate your time, money, or love to a cancer patient association or any organization. You really ought to dedicate one day a year to selfless service—doing something for someone else rather than yourself, and being ready to serve.” His emotional appeal became one of the key moments of the Cancer Rose Day 2026 event, placing the focus firmly on compassion, support and the journeys of those fighting cancer.