‘Life of Pi’ star Irrfan Khan reveals struggle with rare illness

MUMBAI: Bollywood star Irrfan Khan, known internationally for his roles in blockbusters “Life of Pi” and “Slumdog Millionaire”, shocked fans Friday by revealing he has a rare tumour. In a statement addressing speculation by fans and the media over his health, Khan said he has been diagnosed with a neuroendocrine tumour. The disease affects the body’s hormonal messaging system and studies suggest it afflicts just 35 in 100,000 people. “Learning that I have been diagnosed with neuroendocrine tumour as of now has admittedly been difficult, but the love and strength of those around me and that I found within me has brought me to a place of hope,” Khan said on Twitter. “To those who waited for my words, I hope to be back with more stories to tell,” he said, adding that he would leave India for treatment. Referring to rumours about his illness, Khan said a neuroendocrine tumour “is not always about the brain and googling is the easiest way to do research”.