Shiva Rajkumar says he almost gave up Peddi during cancer treatment
At the Chennai promotions of Peddi, Shiva Rajkumar revealed that he had almost quit the film after being diagnosed with cancer and going to the US for treatment. He said that the team chose to wait for his return rather than recast the role, making the project a very personal journey for him.
Kannada actor Shiva Rajkumar has revealed that he almost parted ways with director Buchi Babu Sana after he was diagnosed with cancer and went to the US for treatment. Speaking at the promotion of the film in Chennai ahead of its release on June 4, he said that the team chose to wait for his return rather than replacing him in the film starring Ram Charan and Janhvi Kapoor.
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Shiva said that he had agreed to do the film before his diagnosis in 2024. He recalled that Buchi Babu Sana had narrated the script to him and he had also spoken to Ram Charan on the same day, before his diagnosis changed the turn of events.
Shiv Rajkumar on the support of Peddi team during cancer diagnosis
At the Chennai event, Siva said, “They just wanted to do the film with me, and when Butchi Babu narrated the film to me, I liked the subject. I also spoke to Ram Charan that day. And after that, unfortunately, I got cancer, and I had to go to America.”
The actor said that he had considered leaving the project, but the producers refused to let him go. “But he waited for me. I thought, should we cancel? But Buchi Babu said, no, we want you. It’s very nice of him, and he waited for me for a long time. I’m very grateful to you, sir, it’s been a beautiful journey,” the 64-year-old said.
At the event, Ram Charan also praised Shiva, stating that he has watched the film several times only because of his cameo. He expressed how the actor’s screen presence felt like a glow, especially noting the memorable scene in the car.
“When you go in the car, and that slo-mo shot with the cigarette, it’s an iconic performance,” he said, adding that the actor’s eyes speak volumes for the expression.
Shiv Rajkumar’s cancer cured
In December 2024, Shiva underwent surgery at a hospital in Miami, USA, to remove his cancerous bladder. Doctors created an artificial bladder using a part of his intestine. In January 2025, he revealed that he was scared even before the diagnosis, but the support of his fans, family and medical team helped him through this period.
Shiv talks in detail about his health crisis in February 2025 cool maaga podcast. He also revealed that he had continued shooting for his Kannada film 45 during his treatment.
The actor said, “I was a little worried because I knew chemotherapy causes hair fall. I was cleared by the doctor, but I was told not to push myself too hard. I would finish the chemo and go for shooting; that made me very tired. I don’t want to reveal what it is (I did), but when you see the climax of 45, you will be shocked how I did it. My character demands gentleness from me rather than anger.” Used to do.”
pedi Set for theatrical release on June 4.