In a powerful union dedicated to public health, Mangalore Institute of Oncology (M.I.O) partnered with Daijiworld Media Network to inaugurate a year-long, comprehensive cancer awareness campaign titled ‘Cancer Gellona’ – Let’s break the myth, cancer is not death. This collaborative effort coincided with Daijiworld’s 25th anniversary as a media channel, marking the occasion with a significant initiative for social awareness. The campaign is structured as a regular television talk show that will be telecast on the Daijiworld Network, aiming to dispel fear and promote life-saving knowledge about cancer.
The impactful launch ceremony, held on October 25, 2025, at M.I.O Hospital, 3rd Floor, Pumpwell, sets the stage for a critical series of programs to educate the masses about cancer diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
The inaugural function was graced by distinguished leaders from the political, media, and healthcare sectors:
Capt. Brijesh Chowta, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Dakshina Kannada (Chief Guest)
Walter Nandalike, Founder, Daijiworld Media Network
Dr. D. Suresh Rao, Director, M.I.O
Dr. Jalaluddin Akbar K.C., Director, M.I.O
Dr. Rohan Chandra Gatty, Director, M.I.O
The program commenced with the traditional and solemn lighting of the lamp by the esteemed guests, symbolically ushering in light and knowledge. Following the lighting of the lamp, the official ‘Cancer Gellona’ poster was digitally unveiled on an LED screen by the guests, marking the formal beginning of the year-long media campaign.
Walter Nandalike, Founder of Daijiworld Network, addressed the gathering, expressing deep concern over the incidence of cancer, and how it is impacting the country. He stressed the urgent need for awareness and confidence, emphasizing how this talk show can help to break the widespread myths surrounding the disease, which is essential to reduce fatalities.
Chief Guest Capt. Brijesh Chowta, Member of Parliament, commended the excellent intentions behind both institutions, M.I.O and Daijiworld, for making this crucial initiative happen. He praised Mr. Nandalike’s consistent efforts in moving forward for the betterment of society and the commitment to public welfare demonstrated by this partnership.
Dr. D. Suresh Rao, Director of M.I.O, shared the hospital’s motivation. He highlighted the institution’s ongoing efforts to bring about change and how Mr. Nandalike had proactively approached MIO with this noble idea. Dr. Rao reaffirmed that the entire M.I.O team would fully support this cause, noting that people are often scared but lack the essential knowledge about how to correctly identify, diagnose, and benefit from early detection.
The launch was attended by several media personnel, well-wishers and M.I.O staff. The formal proceedings concluded with Dr. Venkataraman Kini delivering the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all attendees and partners for their dedication to spreading hope and crucial awareness.
‘Cancer Gellona’ is a promise to the community, a promise that through consistent education via the talk show, the fear of cancer can be replaced with the power of knowledge.
