“February 4 is World Cancer Day,” she wrote. “I’m sending all my love and support to anyone and everyone affected by cancer and want to offer a gentle reminder… If you or anyone you know has concerns, make an appointment to see your healthcare provider. And if it’s time for your check-ups, you know what to do!” She signed off with a heart emoji and her signature “X.”
Minogue’s journey with cancer began in May 2005 when she was diagnosed at 36. Just days later, she underwent a lumpectomy and began chemotherapy, which she later described as “experiencing a nuclear bomb.” Though declared cancer-free in 2006, she has spoken openly about the huge impact of the experience.
“It’s trauma, and any trauma resides within you,” she told CBS News. “The experience of a cancer diagnosis will live in me. It was difficult. It was also amazing. Amazing in that you are very aware of your body, of the love that’s around you, of your capability, all sorts of things.”
During her treatment, Minogue received an outpouring of support from fans worldwide. She has kept countless letters, drawings, and cards sent to her, some addressed simply to “Kylie Minogue, Australia.” Reflecting on this, she told the BBC, “I just felt there was a trail of love and support. It really made such a difference to me.”
Kylie Minogue dazzles on stage at the Summer Gala in Saint-TropezGetty Images
Her diagnosis had a ripple effect, inspiring what doctors termed the “Kylie effect”—a significant increase in women booking breast cancer screenings. Her raw and authentic journey has made her a powerful advocate for cancer awareness.
Over the years, she has worked with organisations like the Entertainment Industry Foundation’s Women’s Cancer Research Fund and launched campaigns like One Note Against Cancer to raise funds for research. In recognition of her efforts, Minogue was awarded an honorary doctorate in health science from Anglia Ruskin University in 2011 and the Courage Award from the Women’s Cancer Research Fund in 2013.
As she gears up for her Tension world tour, starting in Perth on February 15, Minogue continues to inspire millions with her resilience and advocacy. Her World Cancer Day message is a heartfelt reminder of the importance of early detection and the strength found in community support.
Through her journey, Kylie Minogue has not only survived but thrived, turning her personal battle into a narrative of hope for others.
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire
Rahul Bhatt sparks controversy over remarks about sisters Alia and Pooja Bhatt
Rahul Bhatt, fitness trainer and son of veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, has found himself at the centre of a social media storm following controversial remarks about his half-sister, Alia Bhatt. In a recent interview, Rahul drew comparisons between Alia and their older sister Pooja Bhatt, calling the latter more talented, attractive, and principled.
The comments, which many have labelled inappropriate and insensitive, have sparked widespread criticism online. During the interview, Rahul stated, “In my opinion, she (Alia) is not even half of what my real sister Pooja is. Not in talent, not in looks, not in terms of being sexy. In front of my sister, she is ‘paani kam chai’ (watery tea). Amongst the siblings, the most talented and the most moralistic is Pooja.”
Social media users reacted strongly, questioning why Rahul would compare his sisters in such personal terms. Several users were particularly disturbed by his reference to their appearance and sex appeal, pointing out that such comparisons within a family cross boundaries of propriety. One comment read, “This is disturbing. Why talk about your sisters like that? It’s not just weird, it’s wrong.” Another post said, “There’s nothing respectful about comparing your siblings’ attractiveness in public.”
The backlash also reignited conversation around a decades-old controversy involving Mahesh Bhatt and Pooja Bhatt. Rahul was asked about the infamous 1990s magazine cover where the father-daughter duo shared a kiss, which had stirred public outrage at the time. Dismissing the criticism, Rahul said, “It doesn’t make any difference. It’s like water off a duck’s back. We know the truth, and we’ve seen everything since childhood.”
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire, with critics saying it reflects a broader issue of the Bhatt family being insensitive to public perception and boundaries. Many users questioned the need for bringing up old incidents in a bid to defend new and equally questionable statements.
As of now, neither Alia Bhatt nor Pooja Bhatt has issued any public response to Rahul’s remarks. Both actors, known for their significant contributions to Indian cinema, have typically kept family matters private despite living in the public eye.
This episode has also sparked debate over the role of public figures in maintaining respect when discussing family matters in the media. Observers say such comments, especially when involving women’s appearance and personal qualities, reinforce problematic attitudes and fuel unnecessary controversies.
While Rahul Bhatt is not as prominent in the entertainment industry as his father or sisters, his comments have made headlines and placed the Bhatt family in the spotlight for reasons beyond their creative work. For many, this serves as a reminder that public platforms come with responsibility, and that family ties should not be trivialised or dissected for attention or comparison.
The backlash is unlikely to subside soon, especially as fans and followers of Alia and Pooja continue to express disappointment over the way the situation has unfolded. Whether or not Rahul chooses to clarify or apologise remains to be seen.