Veteran journalist and television anchor Rajdeep Sardesai has shared his personal battle with prostate cancer, revealing that he feels “incredibly lucky” to be cancer-free just three months after his diagnosis. In the latest episode of his weekly Straight Bat vlog on YouTube, posted on October 20, 2025, Sardesai spoke candidly about his diagnosis, treatment, and recovery, reflecting on how a routine check-up unexpectedly turned into one of the most challenging periods of his life.

Sardesai, one of India’s most prominent and respected journalists, said he received the shocking news in mid-July when a biopsy confirmed he had prostate cancer. “Sir, unfortunately, the biopsy is positive for prostate cancer,” read the WhatsApp message from his doctor — a brief but life-altering sentence that left him stunned. “I stared at the words unblinkingly more than a few times. Cancer? Me? How? Why? I had just celebrated turning 60 only weeks earlier. I had no major medical history nor any symptoms to suggest any looming health crisis,” he recounted.

What began as a routine medical procedure quickly turned into an unexpected medical journey. Sardesai explained that a series of tests, including a fusion biopsy, were conducted after doctors identified a potentially malignant tumor. He described how a planned summer holiday to watch the India-England Test series — something he had looked forward to for months — was replaced by anxiety, sleepless nights, and the heavy uncertainty that comes with a cancer diagnosis. “A planned holiday to watch the exciting, nail-biting India-England Test series was now turning out to be a rather unsettled summer of growing trepidation,” he said.

A Battle Won Through Early Detection

In the vlog, Sardesai emphasized how early detection played a crucial role in saving his life. “Prostate cancer itself is increasingly common and is the second most diagnosed cancer among men in India, especially elderly men,” he explained. “Survival rate in India is around 64% higher for those who receive early treatment.”

He revealed that his Gleason score—a grading system used to determine the aggressiveness of prostate cancer—was on the higher side, indicating a need for prompt medical action. However, since the cancer was detected relatively early, his doctors were able to act quickly and effectively. “I was, in that sense, incredibly lucky,” he said, noting that many men are not as fortunate because they often discover the disease only in its advanced stages.

Undergoing Robotic Surgery

After consultations with his doctors and family, Sardesai underwent robotic surgery in mid-August to remove the cancerous prostate gland. The procedure, known for its precision and minimal invasiveness, was performed successfully. Reflecting on the experience, he said, “I feel even luckier. Last week, the scans I did revealed that there had been no spread of the disease and the cancerous tumor had been effectively removed.”

Sardesai credited his medical team for their professionalism and empathy throughout the process. He also highlighted the importance of mental resilience and emotional support from loved ones during such times. “Battling cancer is not just a physical fight — it’s deeply emotional. You need your family, friends, and faith in medicine to pull you through,” he said.

Raising Awareness About Men’s Health

The veteran journalist used his platform to raise awareness about prostate cancer — a disease that, despite being one of the most common among men, often goes undiagnosed until it’s too late. “There is a sense of denial that many of us men live with,” he said. “We ignore symptoms, postpone check-ups, and assume that things will be fine. I did the same, and I was lucky my tests caught it early. But luck should not be a substitute for vigilance.”

Prostate cancer occurs in the prostate gland, which is part of the male reproductive system, and is most commonly diagnosed in men over the age of 50. According to medical experts, regular screenings — including PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood tests — are essential for early detection. Sardesai urged men, especially those above 50, to take preventive health checks seriously. “Get your regular check-ups done,” he advised. “A simple test can literally save your life.”

A New Perspective on Life

Emerging from the experience cancer-free, Sardesai said the journey has profoundly changed his outlook on life. He described the weeks following his diagnosis as a time of reflection, fear, and gratitude. “When you hear the word ‘cancer,’ you are filled with disbelief, even dread,” he admitted. “But when you come out on the other side, you realize how fragile life really is — and how much we take our health for granted.”

He added that the experience has reminded him to slow down, appreciate the small things, and prioritize health over work and deadlines. “As journalists, we live in a world of constant deadlines, breaking news, and relentless schedules. We don’t pause long enough to check in with our bodies. This experience has taught me that health has to come first. Everything else follows.”

Gratitude and Hope

Sardesai expressed deep gratitude toward his family, doctors, and well-wishers who supported him during his treatment. He also acknowledged the advances in medical technology — particularly robotic surgery — that made his recovery smooth and effective. “I’m thankful for the doctors who guided me through the process with such clarity and compassion,” he said. “I am equally thankful for the love and encouragement I received from my family and friends. Their support gave me the courage to face the uncertainty with hope.”

The journalist, known for his decades-long career in television news and his calm, analytical commentary, said he chose to share his story publicly not for sympathy but to inspire awareness. “If even one person decides to go for a check-up after hearing my story, then this conversation is worth having,” he said.

A Message to His Audience

Concluding his vlog, Sardesai left his audience with a message of hope and vigilance. “Life throws curveballs when you least expect them,” he said. “But with timely medical help, faith, and determination, you can fight back. Cancer is not the end — it can be a new beginning.”

He encouraged viewers to prioritize preventive healthcare and shed the stigma or fear often associated with diseases like cancer. “The key is not to panic, but to act,” he added. “Don’t delay your tests, don’t ignore your health. Early detection can make all the difference.”

As Sardesai resumes his professional duties and continues to host his weekly show, his message resonates as both a personal triumph and a public reminder. His journey — from disbelief to recovery — underscores not only the importance of early medical intervention but also the power of resilience in the face of life’s most unexpected challenges.

For many of his viewers, colleagues, and admirers, Rajdeep Sardesai’s story stands as a testament to courage, awareness, and the will to overcome adversity — and a hopeful reminder that even in the face of cancer, life can once again be celebrated with gratitude and strength.