Veteran Bangladeshi actor Ilias Kanchan has returned home after more than a year of treatment in London for a brain tumour.
Kanchan left London’s Heathrow Airport for Dhaka on Monday (3 August) morning and arrived in Bangladesh accompanied by his son-in-law, Ariful Islam Collins.
The actor appeared visibly frail and returned in a wheelchair. Thanking relatives, well-wishers and fans who were present at the airport, Kanchan said, “Alhamdulillah, I am well. My health is also good. I ask everyone to pray for me. I am also praying for everyone.”
Kanchan travelled to the UK for treatment in April 2025 after being diagnosed with a brain tumour. He underwent a complex brain surgery at a London hospital in August that year. Doctors, however, could not remove the entire tumour because of the risks involved.
Liton Ershad, vice-president of Nirapad Sarak Chai, said Kanchan must return to London before 14 August for his next medical examination on 15 August.
Kanchan has undergone 60 chemotherapy sessions over the past year. Despite the prolonged treatment, his condition has not improved as expected, Liton said.
Kanchan remains one of the most popular and successful actors in Bangladesh. His credits include the country’s commercially successful film ‘Beder Meye Josna’ and numerous other audience favourites.
He has received the National Film Award for his contribution to acting. He was also awarded the Ekushey Padak for his role in social awareness as the founder of the Nirapad Sarak Chai movement.
