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Journalism of Courage
Returning to work after a serious illness can bring more than just physical challenges. Actor Hina Khan, who was diagnosed with breast cancer last year, says she can sense hesitation from people in the industry when it comes to offering her projects.
The actor, who is now back on the small screen with ‘Pati Patni Aur Panga’, shared with news agency PTI: “This is my first project after the whole thing happened. I want to work. No one has directly said to me that, ‘You’ve still not recovered completely’, but I can sense that maybe people are hesitant for all the right reasons. It’s okay. I’ll have to break that norm. Maybe the show will do it, I understand it. Had I been in their place, I would’ve thought about it a thousand times. I’m open to auditions, where did I stop? No one has called me for the last year, for all the reasons. I’m open to everything, please call me.”
She shared that taking up her current reality show was an important step in testing her capabilities post-treatment. “It was a big step for me to take up the show, and it was an experiment as far as my health is concerned, like whether I’ll be able to do it or not. So far, so good, I get tired a bit, but apart from that, everything is fine. I’m ready to take up anything, be it a digital show, or anything, I would not take up long-term commitment. If anything is offered, if they find me worthy enough, then why not,” she told PTI.
Counselling psychologist Athul Raj tells indianexpress.com, “The hesitation often arises from uncertainty rather than a lack of faith in the person’s abilities. Despite medical clearance, employers worry about invisible effects like lingering fatigue, emotional ups and downs, or the chance of relapse. In India’s fast-paced, results-driven work culture, unpredictability is seen as a risk to be managed carefully.”
This reflects a broader discomfort with vulnerability and illness, he says, which are subjects rarely discussed openly. Employers may lean towards caution to protect both their team’s output and the individual’s health, but this cautious stance can inadvertently create barriers for those who are fully ready and motivated to return.
Clear, honest communication is essential. Professionals should acknowledge their recovery journey openly without over-apologising, focusing instead on their current capacity and how they are pacing themselves. Trust rebuilds gradually through consistent, reliable performance rather than broad assurances.
“This steady demonstration encourages colleagues to replace old assumptions of vulnerability with recognition of resilience and commitment. Cultivating supportive relationships at work also offers a safe space to share ongoing challenges, easing the return to work process for everyone involved,” explains Raj.
Raj states that true inclusion begins with listening and openness rather than assumptions. Organisations can support returning professionals with flexible arrangements such as phased re-entry, mental health resources, and training to help leaders recognise and counter unconscious bias. Viewing recovery as a dynamic process, not a fixed condition, allows individuals to communicate their needs honestly and contribute authentically.
