The Beyond October Cancer Awareness Campaign 2025, spearheaded by the indefatigable media personality Manju Ramanan, marked its 11th glorious year on October 30th with an evening of heart, hope, and heroism. Hosted at Daftar, DIFC, the event radiated warmth, unity, and resilience… a fitting tribute to the campaign’s theme: No One Walks Alone. TheGlitz reports…
“It is a platform where cancer warriors narrate their stories, and we saw the best of Dubai in attendance — be it cancer warriors, guests, or the press,” shares Manju Ramanan, her eyes gleaming with pride.
…And indeed, it was a gathering where courage wasn’t just applauded — it was contagious.
Beyond October: A Cause Close to the Heart
Supported by a powerful community of changemakers, the campaign united brands, media, and individuals who believe in the power of compassion. Generous partners such as Enchanter Arabia, Innara (founded by Guddi Bajaj), Playfield Entertainment (helmed by Dixit Dev), JYK (by Juhi Yasmeen Khan), and Teejay Packers (founded by Thomas Joseph) lent their unwavering support.
“Media houses including Khaleej Times, Zee TV Middle East, Talk 100.3 FM, and TheGlitz Magazine from India came together to amplify awareness — proving that when the cause is noble, the message resonates across borders,” Manju avers.
“As the founder of Innara, I am deeply honored to support the Beyond October: No One Walks Alone campaign for breast cancer awareness,” says Guddi Bajaj. “This initiative holds special meaning for me, as it reflects our collective commitment. Together, we can turn awareness into action and support women on this journey.”
An Evening of Strength, Song, and Spirit
The evening’s guest of honour, Mr. Ahmad Al Falasi, fondly known as the Homemaker of the UAE, addressed the gathering with humility and heart. He spoke about his foundation’s work with renal patients in Africa and its growing involvement in breast cancer awareness. His message — that empathy transcends geography — deeply moved the audience.
Adding a touch of stardust, Bollywood’s evergreen actress and dancer Kalpana Iyer shared her thoughts on compassion and outreach, while celebrity couple Sara Arfeen Khan and Arfeen Khan, known for transforming lives, spoke passionately about kindness and courage. “Life can surprise you,” said Sara. “It’s important to be kind — always.”
When Young Voices Sing for Hope
Among the most poignant moments of the evening came from two young hearts — Aarushi Laud and Navni Patni, both students of Dubai Gems Academy. Their soulful performance, dedicated to cancer warriors, left not a single dry eye in the room.
Their tribute carried an emotional resonance — they are part of the Sakshi Vercot Theatre Festival, held in memory of Sakshi, a bright student who tragically lost her battle with cancer.
Her mother, Binu Sivan, herself a cancer warrior, shared how her daughter’s strength continues to guide her. “Sakshi taught me how to smile even when life tested me,” she said, her voice quivering yet powerful.
The event’s musical crescendo came courtesy of Guinness World Record holder Sucheta Santosh, who sang in multiple languages, bringing the room together in rhythm and resilience.
More Than Awareness — A Lifeline
Beyond October isn’t just another campaign — it’s a lifeline for many. Cancer warriors face challenges that go beyond treatment — financial strain, emotional fatigue, loss of confidence, and struggles with livelihood.
“With each year, we are hoping we can resolve their issues and integrate them within our networks so that they enjoy better quality of lives,” says Manju, who has turned advocacy into an art form.
Isheeta Sharma, founder and owner of Daftar, beautifully summed up the sentiment of the evening: “Hosting this event at Daftar is a heartfelt privilege. The resilience and spirit of cancer warriors remind us what true strength looks like. We’re proud to be a small part of a cause that celebrates hope and healing.”
TheGlitz Salutes the Spirit of Survivors
“At TheGlitz, we believe poignant experiences like these the are real-life blockbusters — tales of courage, compassion, and community. The Beyond October campaign reminds us that true glamour lies in resilience, and that no one should ever have to face the dark alone.” – says Sumita Chakraborty, Founder & Editor-in-chief, TheGlitz.
Indeed, Beyond October is not just about pink ribbons and statistics — it’s about real people, real struggles, and the real power of community. It’s about women (and men) who fight every day not just to survive, but to thrive — and the people who walk beside them so they never have to walk alone.
Here’s to the warriors, the dreamers, the doers — and to Manju Ramanan, the woman who reminds us year after year that when compassion leads the way, hope always wins.
