Shaukat Khanum: A Nation’s First Step

Imran Khan: "When a nation decides to help its poor, God finds ways for it to succeed. The real thing is to have honest intentions. It is my belief that God willing, one day you will see that we will be successful in eradicating poverty."

This Ramadan, discover the inspiring story that transformed personal tragedy into a worldwide campaign of hope, healing, and unity.

1985: Inspiration After Loss

1988: Rallying Global Support

Despite warnings that a charitable hospital would be difficult to sustain in a developing country, Imran Khan did not abandon the idea. Instead, he reached out to influential friends and contacts around the world.

A number of well-known actors, singers, athletes, and public figures responded by lending their support and helping to raise awareness.

1990: Laying the Foundation

Encouraged by the response, Imran Khan worked with Nausherwan Khan Burki, Professor of Medicine at the University of Kentucky, to develop a master plan for Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre. Dr Burki later became the centre’s first Chief Executive Officer.

Health planning specialists Judd & Rapp, based in Louisville, USA, were appointed to lead the planning and design work.

Local engineering responsibilities were assigned to Nayyar Ali Dada & Associates and Progressive Consultants in Lahore.

1991: Building Momentum

With the foundation in place, the project created hundreds of jobs, helping to strengthen opportunities for the local community.

It also drew international attention from prominent figures, including Princess Diana of Wales, who visited Pakistan to lend her support.

She later returned on two further occasions to shine a light on the development.

1992: World Cup Triumph

In 1992, Imran Khan led his team to victory in the Cricket World Cup final and donated his entire prize money of £90,000 to the construction fund.

He went on to become one of the project’s largest individual donors, contributing an estimated 15–20% of his subsequent earnings each year.

1992: Amplifying Fundraising Efforts

Building on the momentum of his cricket success, Imran Khan organised a series of fundraising events, including concerts and charity cricket matches, across Pakistan and in London.

These events were attended by well-known figures from film, music, and theatre, including Amitabh Bachchan, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Dilip Kumar, Moin Akhtar, Sunil Dutt, and Madam Noor Jehan.

1994: Nationwide Campaign for Completion

With six weeks remaining before the planned opening, Imran Khan faced a shortfall in funds needed to complete the construction. In response, he led a nationwide fundraising campaign, travelling to 30 cities across Pakistan.

The campaign drew widespread public support. Within a short period, £3.5 million was raised, enabling the building work to be completed.

1994: Inauguration of Shaukat Khanum Lahore

On 29 December, Shaukat Khanum Lahore opened its doors to families from across Pakistan. Sumera Yusuf, the first person to receive support, was invited to cut the ceremonial ribbon.

She later went on to work in the centre’s gift shop.