Bollywood action star Akshay Kumar shared a heartfelt tribute to his late father, Hari Om Bhatia, during the India Today Conclave 2026, where he recounted the devastating impact of prostate cancer that led to his father's demise in 2000. Kumar revealed that one of the major reasons for his father's passing was the lack of awareness regarding the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test, which is crucial for detecting prostate cancer, particularly for men aged 50 and older. He called for greater education and advocacy surrounding this life-saving test.

During a poignant moment in the discussion, host Rajdeep Sardesai recounted his personal experience of overcoming prostate cancer, noting how Akshay's earlier words about his father's battle resonated deeply with him. This interaction highlighted the urgency of the message Kumar was trying to convey, encouraging men to prioritize regular health screenings. Akshay Kumar expressed his deep emotional loss, stating, 'I lost the most important person in my life, my father, who left us at the age of 67. He meant everything to me.'

Kumar’s appeal serves as a reminder of the critical importance of early detection and regular health check-ups, particularly for men within the higher risk age group. His personal story not only underscores the impact of cancer but also stresses the need for proactive health measures, making a compelling case for more awareness of prostate cancer and the PSA test.