KKN Gurugram Desk | Bollywood actress Sonali Bendre, known for her iconic role in Hum Saath Saath Hain (1999), recently revealed a touching truth — behind the public persona of superstar Salman Khan lies a deeply caring friend. During her 2018 cancer treatment in New York, Salman flew across the world twice to stand by her side
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From On-Screen Snark to Off-Screen Support
Their relationship began with friction on the set of Hum Saath Saath Hain: Sonali recalled how Salman’s playful antics — “standing behind the camera, making faces” — irritated her at first.
“There are two sides to Salman… I was not fond of him then,” she admitted .
Yet those early impressions underwent a profound change after her diagnosis.
The New York Chronicles: Salman’s Unexpected Visits
Sonali was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic cancer in 2018 and sought treatment in New York, facing one of life’s hardest battles .
In her own words to ANI, Sonali described how Salman took an elderly mentor’s role, coordinating with her husband, Goldie Behl, to ensure she was seen by the right doctors and was well cared for .
“Salman made two trips to New York… he was invested in making sure everything was in place,” she said .
His visits weren’t just symbolic — they were filled with practical concern, reminders about treatment, recovery protocols, and messages that showed genuine empathy.
A Newfound Appreciation
Reflecting on that time, Sonali said Salman’s caring gestures changed her entire perception :
“I’ve had my issues with him, but I’ve grown to appreciate that side of him.”
She described it as a transformative experience that revealed Salman’s “sensitive and caring” nature — a stark contrast to his previous prankster persona .
Overcoming Cancer, Embracing a Survivor Identity
Bendre battled cancer with remarkable strength. Through chemotherapy, radiation, and emotional endurance, she overcame stigma and uncertainty .
She has since emerged as a vocal advocate for cancer awareness, offering inspiration to millions of patients in India and beyond.
Why This Story Matters
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Breaking Stereotypes: Public figures like Salman challenge their own caricatures, showing deeper empathy and loyalty.
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Celebrity Impact: Personal stories like this shift public narratives and humanize icons, making a difference in the mental health discourse.
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Human Connection: It’s a reminder that compassion, support, and love — even unspoken — can heal beyond medicine.
Salman Khan’s trips to New York and his unwavering concern for Sonali Bendre — from diagnosis to recovery — are not just headlines; they are profound statements of loyalty and human kindness. This story is a testament to the enduring bonds behind fame, reminding us that celebrities too can be true life heroes.
