75 Cancer Survivors Create World Record Singing National Anthem in Hyderabad
Hyderabad:
More than 75 cancer survivors created history by setting a World Book of Records (London) record for singing the National Anthem using artificial larynx devices. The rare feat was achieved during Republic Day celebrations at the Basavatarakam Indo American Cancer Hospital and Research Institute.
The participants, aged between 24 and 87 years, accomplished the record in their very first attempt. All of them had undergone complete removal of the larynx due to cancer and were rehabilitated using advanced speech techniques.
Dr Chandrashekar, Head of the Department of Head and Neck Surgery at the hospital, told Deccan Chronicle that over the last decade, around 500 patients had undergone laryngeal surgeries, of whom nearly 200 survived. Many of them later formed a Laryngectomy Club to share experiences, motivate fellow patients, and spread awareness through recorded videos.
“Only patients who had their larynx completely removed were invited for this programme, as partial surgery patients can still speak naturally,” Dr Chandrashekar explained. He said the participants were rehabilitated through esophageal speech, tracheo-esophageal puncture, and electro-larynx devices. “Their collective effort led to the creation of this world record,” he added.
Film actor and Hindupur MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna, Chairman of the hospital, unfurled the National Flag on the occasion and interacted with the cancer survivors, appreciating their courage and determination.
The event stood as a powerful symbol of resilience, medical advancement, and the human spirit, inspiring cancer patients and survivors across the country.