Vibhu Raghave dies of stage 4 cancer: What is colon cancer and what experts say about its rising risk among youth

TV actor Vibhu Raghave, best known for his role in Nisha Aur Uske Cousins, passed away on 2 June 2025 after a long battle with stage four colon cancer. He was getting treated at Nanavati Hospital in Mumbai, where he took his last breath. His sudden death has left his friends, co-stars, and fans heartbroken.

Tributes Pour In

Vibhu had been fighting colon cancer for quite some time. His passing has deeply affected those who were close to him, including fellow actors Aditi Malik, Saumya Tandon, Sanaya Irani, and others. Many of them took to social media to share their grief and memories of him, along with details about his funeral.

Aditi Malik posted, "The purest soul, a beacon of strength & positivity. His smile could light up any room & his presence alone made everything feel better. He faced life with unmatched grace & left behind a love that will never fade. He will be deeply missed. Always."

Actor Simple Kaul also wrote, "You will be missed, my dear friend @vibhuzinsta. Love, light and happiness to you."

Karan Veer Mehra added, "Rest in peace, brother. Too soon."

Sanaya Irani wrote, "RIP Friend A. I’m sure you are spreading positivity, love and warmth wherever you are. Gone too soon. You will be missed."

Saumya Tandon and Aditi Malik also shared details of Vibhu’s funeral, including the Antim Darshan and location of the last rites.

Vibhu’s Work in Television

Vibhu was a well-known face in the Indian TV industry. Apart from Nisha Aur Uske Cousins, he also acted in Savdhaan India and was appreciated for his performances.

What Is Colon Cancer and Why Are More Young People Getting It?

Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that starts in the large intestine (colon) or the rectum. It often begins as small, non-cancerous lumps called polyps, which can slowly turn into cancer over time.

What Happens in Colon Cancer?

The colon is part of the digestive system, and its main job is to absorb water and store waste. In colon cancer, cells in the lining of the colon or rectum grow abnormally and form tumours. If not caught early, the cancer can spread to other parts of the body.

Why Are Experts Worried About Young People?

Colon cancer used to mostly affect older adults, especially those over 50. But in recent years, experts have noticed a rise in cases among younger people too, sometimes even in their 20s and 30s.

While the exact reason isn’t fully clear, doctors and researchers have shared a few possible explanations:

• Diet and lifestyle: Experts believe that processed food, low fibre diets, and high red meat intake could be contributing factors.
• Sedentary habits: Less physical activity and long hours sitting down might also increase the risk.
• Gut health and obesity: Some doctors think that changes in gut bacteria and rising obesity levels could play a role.
• Family history: A small number of cases are linked to inherited conditions, but most aren’t.
• Delayed diagnosis: Younger people often don’t expect serious illness, so symptoms like blood in stool, cramps, or fatigue may be ignored or misdiagnosed, leading to later detection.

What Are the Symptoms?

Colon cancer symptoms can be hard to spot at first. Some common signs include:

• Blood in stool
• Stomach pain or cramps
• Sudden weight loss
• Fatigue
• Changes in bowel habits that last for weeks

Doctors advise anyone experiencing these symptoms for more than a few days to see a medical professional, just to be safe.