Manisha Koirala, the iconic star of more than 100 Bollywood films, has received an honorary doctorate from the University of Bradford.
The newly titled Dr Manisha Koirala said she was delighted and humbled to receive the title, given in recognition of her contribution to health awareness, following her battle with ovarian cancer.
Known for her celebrated films like ‘Dil Se…’ and ‘Mann’, university chiefs said she had been honoured for using her world-wide platform to promote women’s rights and health awareness.
Sharing a video from the ceremony on her Instagram page, she told 2.4million followers about her visit to Bradford. She wrote: “Today, I received an honorary doctorate from the University of Bradford.
“I stand here not as someone who came through the traditional path of education, but as someone who learned through life – through hard work, failure, resilience and service.
“This honour means more than I can put into words. It’s proof that no matter where you start, your journey matters. Thank you to the university of Bradford for seeing value in my story. Keep growing. Keep shining…”
Manisha has achieved more than 30 years in the international film industry and has more than 50 million views globally for her recent popular Netflix series Heermandi: The Diamond Bazaar.
The award winner visited the city’s university on Tuesday (15 July) to receive her honorary degree at a special ceremony. She had a tour of the university and met officials.
She later met fans at an exclusive Meet and Greet event organised by the Asian Standard newspaper.
Fans who queued to meet her included Sonny Ali, a property developer and owner from Bradford (pictured). He said: “I am a big fan of Manisha. I love her films, especially those from the 1990s. My favourite is 1942 A Love Story.”
After meeting his idol, he said: “I am feeling overwhelmed. I am a really big fan of hers and this was a chance in a lifetime to meet her, so many thanks to the Asian Standard for organising this event. It was amazing to be in the same room as her. She is such a talented actress.”
Other invited fans brought gifts and flowers as she happily exchanged words and had photographs taken after an in-depth interview with Asian Standard managing editor Fatima Patel.
Fatima added: “There are few individuals who embody strength, resilience, and grace in the way that Manisha Koirala does. To honour her with a doctorate is not only a celebration of her prolific contribution to cinema, but a recognition of her extraordinary journey beyond the screen.
“Having faced and overcome the profound challenges of a cancer diagnosis, Manisha has transformed personal adversity into purpose, using her platform to raise awareness, offer support, and give hope to others battling similar battles. She is not only a beloved artist but a beacon of courage and compassion.
“In a world that too often celebrates surface over substance, Manisha stands out as a woman of depth, humility, and unwavering dignity. This recognition from the University of Bradford is richly deserved, and a testament to the impact she continues to make, not just in film, but in life. Huge congratulations to her and to all who graduated in the class of 2025”
Other people to receive Honorary Doctorate Degrees from the University of Bradford included:
Sajid Azeb, an NHS leader making a transformative impact on healthcare in Bradford and beyond.
Shahnaz Ali OBE, a pioneer in equality and human rights in the NHS, shaping national policy and inclusive education.
Nora Whitham MBE, a lifelong nurse educator and advocate, with a 50-year legacy in health education and community service.
AA Dhand, the bestselling author and screenwriter, elevating Bradford’s voice in the creative arts and championing representation.
Daniel Lee, Bradford-born fashion visionary and Chief Creative Officer at Burberry, redefining global style.
Professor Dato’ Seri Ir and Dr Noor Azuan Abu Osman, an internationally recognised biomechanics expert and Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Malaya.
Ian Adams, MBE, a leader in LGBTQ+ rights and public service, with a distinguished career in communications and local government.
Ifem Onuora, a former professional footballer and Premier League Head of Race Equality, championing inclusion in sport.
Dame Irene Hays DBE DL, a business leader and youth advocate, Chair of Hays Travel and a driving force in social mobility.
