Nauman Ijaz recalls cancer battle, says Surah Rehman gave him strength

Actor reflects on his 2024 diagnosis, treatment and the faith that helped him through a difficult period

Actor Nauman Ijaz has opened up about a difficult chapter in his life, recalling how prayer and the daily recitation of Surah Rehman became a source of strength during his cancer journey.

Speaking on a recent podcast, the veteran actor reflected on the uncertainty he faced after receiving his diagnosis and the thoughts that occupied his mind during that period. “I had lymphoma and a tumour. It was diagnosed in June 2024,” he said.

Recalling the day he received the news, Ijaz said his immediate concern was how his illness might affect his family. He prayed for strength while hoping to avoid a prolonged ordeal that would force his loved ones to watch him undergo extensive treatment.

“The day it happened, I was praying and I said to Allah that I’ve never done anyone wrong. I said to Allah, if you need me then keep me here as I don’t want to see my family in torture or going to the hospitals every day and start doing chemo,” he said.

The diagnosis also made him confront the possibility of death, he said, as he contemplated whether he would wake up each morning.

During this period, a friend whom Ijaz referred to as Butt Sahab offered him some spiritual guidance. “I had a friend, Butt Sahab, who told me to recite Surah Rehman. Since then, I’ve been reciting it every single day,” he recalled.

Ijaz said the practice became an important part of his daily life and his faith during the difficult period. “I think Surah Rehman played the most important part in saving me,” he said.

The actor then recounted what happened after doctors operated to remove the tumour, describing the developments that followed as unexpected. “Alhamdulillah, Allah is very kind. I got an operation and they removed the tumour and it disappeared. Completely disappeared,” he said.

Ijaz said he had been due to begin chemotherapy on July 23, but the treatment was called off the day before after doctors told him they could not find anything that required it. “I was surprised. On July 23, they were supposed to start my chemo. On July 22, they called me up and said, ‘We didn’t find anything, so we are not doing it,’” he said.

Looking back, Ijaz said the experience strengthened his connection with his faith and left him deeply grateful for the outcome. He continues to view the period as a profound blessing from Allah.

While the actor attributes an important part of his experience to prayer and recitation, his account reflects his personal understanding of his recovery. Cancer diagnoses and treatment outcomes vary, and medical decisions should always be made in consultation with qualified healthcare professionals.

For Ijaz, the experience remains a deeply personal journey marked by fear, faith and gratitude.