Actress and model Poonam Pandey dies suddenly of cancer age 32 shocking fans
On Friday, a message was posted to Bollywood star Poonam Pandey's Instagram saying she had died of cervical cancer aged 32. It has since been confirmed the move was a publicity stunt.
She last appeared on the reality show Lock Upp and made her Bollywood debut in the film Nasha in 2013. Pandey shot to fame two years earlier when she vowed to strip for Team India if they won the ICC Cricket World Cup.
The model, who came from Kanpur, India, was said to have passed away on Friday morning. Her management team posted news of the star’s death on her Instagram page where she had 1.3 million followers. The statement read: “This morning is a tough one for us. Deeply saddened to inform you that we have lost our beloved Poonam to cervical cancer. Every living form that ever came in contact with her was met with pure love and kindness.” It was captioned with a red heart and praying hands emoji.
Meanwhile, her manager Nikita Sharma told local media: “Poonam Pandey, the beloved actress and social media personality, has tragically passed away this morning due to cervical cancer, leaving the entertainment industry in shock and mourning. Her unwavering spirit amidst her health struggles was truly remarkable.” Sharma also highlighted the “critical need for increased awareness and proactive measures against preventable diseases like cervical cancer”.
In an Instagram post shared on 30 January, Pandey was seen boarding a ferry in a low-cut white top and black leather trousers. She accompanied the post with the message: “White & black: the yin and yang that balance my life.” She also recently posed with a horse at an animal shelter, writing on Instagram: "Surrounded by the beauty of nature and its inhabitants. Sending a big thanks to Kalote Animal trust for taking care of the sanctuary."
Some of the world's biggest Bollywood stars to visit UK for massive festivalAlongside her bold photoshoots and TV appearance, Pandey has also appeared in films such as Love is Poison, Malini & Co, and The Journey of Karma. One stunned fan commented: “How is this possible? How could someone die of cancer instantly?” Another said: “I can't believe it. RIP.” “Oh my God, this is so much, shocking. Rest in peace love,” wrote another fan. Others expressed concern that the post pay be fake, with one person desperately adding: "This can't be true."