Lisa Ray contemplates the contrasting chapters of her life

IANS May 16, 2025 374 views

Actress Lisa Ray opens up about the significant transformations in her life, particularly focusing on the phases before and after her cancer diagnosis. She shares that the first half of life is about survival, while the second is about embracing one's true purpose. Reflecting on her experience with cancer-induced menopause at 37, Lisa emphasizes the need for authenticity and breaking societal taboos around menopause. Through her public journey, she inspires others by discussing often-silenced health issues and living an authentic life.

"“That’s not a midlife crisis—it’s a rebirth Do you agree?” - Lisa Ray
Lisa Ray contemplates the contrasting chapters of her life
Mumbai, May 16: Actress Lisa Ray has reflected on the contrasting chapters of her life, where she said the first part is about becoming who you needed to be to survive and the second being about unraveling everything that no longer aligns with the soul’s purpose.

Key Points

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Lisa Ray shares life reflections from Goa boat ride

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Discusses life shifts post-cancer and menopause

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Advocates authenticity amid menopause societal silence

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Recognized for issue-oriented roles and public struggles

Lisa took to Instagram, where she shared a video. In the clip, the actress is seen enjoying a boat ride in Goa and also admiring the lush greens surrounding her.

The actress wrote: “Thank you Goa. The first half of life is about becoming who you needed to be to survive. The second half is about unraveling everything that no longer aligns with your soul’s purpose. That’s not a midlife crisis—it’s a rebirth Do you agree?”

The actress often shares profound posts on social media and does not shy away from writing about her struggles.

Earlier this month, the cancer-crusader about how she went into premature chemotherapy induced menopause at age 37.

Lisa, who was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2009, wrote about how menopause and disease induced menopause is treated with shame.

She wrote in the caption: “This is me in Menopause. Menopause does not have one face... This is my story of chemo induced menopause. I went into premature chemo induced menopause at 37 At that time it was the least of my worries.”

The actress added: “I had a blood cancer called Multiple Myeloma to contend with. And the fact I went public also kept me busy at that time. But after recovering, I could focus on what being in Menopause suddenly at 37 would mean. And I had no one to talk to. So I’ve been navigating this unspoken terrain for years now.

“Both menopause and disease induced menopause have been treated with shame and silence for too long. Maybe thats why I am talking now at 53 and embracing the authenticity that comes at this age.”

Talking about her work, Lisa made her acting debut in 1994 in the film Hanste Khelte. Through her acting career, she has showcased a penchant for issue-oriented portrayals, most notably in the 2005 Oscar-nominated Canadian film Water and the award-winning South African feature The World Unseen. She began writing The Yellow Diaries, a blog about her experiences of having cancer.

Lisa was last seen in the 2021 film “99 Songs” directed by Vishwesh Krishnamoorthy. It stars debutants Ehan Bhat and Edilsy Vargas in lead roles, alongside Aditya Seal, Lisa Ray and Manisha Koirala among others in supporting roles. The film is a sensual story about the art and self-discovery of a struggling singer who wants to be a successful music composer.

Reader Comments

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Priya K.
Lisa Ray has always been so inspiring! Her journey from battling cancer to embracing her truth is something we can all learn from. More power to her for breaking the silence around menopause 🙌
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Amit S.
While I admire her courage, I wish she'd do more Bollywood films. We need strong actresses like her in mainstream cinema rather than just art films. Water was brilliant but that was ages ago!
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Neha R.
Her thoughts about the two halves of life really hit home! At 42, I'm exactly going through this phase of shedding what doesn't serve me anymore. So refreshing to hear celebs talk about real stuff instead of just glamour ✨
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Rahul M.
As someone who lost a family member to cancer, I really appreciate how Lisa uses her platform to create awareness. More celebrities should talk about health issues affecting Indian women.
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Shalini P.
That Goa video is so peaceful! Makes me want to take a break from my corporate job and just breathe. Maybe we all need to listen to Lisa's advice about aligning with our soul's purpose 🌿
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Vikram D.
I remember watching her in Hanste Khelte as a kid! It's amazing to see how she's evolved - from Bollywood to international films to becoming a voice for important causes. True multi-talented artist.

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