JAZAK ALLAH KHAIR, SKIPPER
We would like to reassure our donors that Shaukat Khanum accounts are operating as normal, with no restrictions in place. Our founder is unable to make an appeal for the completion of Shaukat Khanum Karachi this year. With your donations, we can finish the project and continue helping those who rely on our support across Pakistan.
Imran Khan: “On the 29th of December 1994, when the doors of Shaukat Khanum [Memorial Cancer] Hospital opened, it was a feeling of triumph within the country. It was like winning another world cup.”
31 years ago, cricket legend Imran Khan and our early supporters opened Pakistan’s first cancer support facility in Lahore. Just over ten years ago, that same vision brought a second project to Peshawar. This Ramadan, your donations can help complete a third centre in Karachi – opening December 2026.
- Dec 1994 – Shaukat Khanum Lahore opens.
- Dec 2015 – Shaukat Khanum Peshawar opens.
- Dec 2026 – Shaukat Khanum Karachi set to open, Insha’Allah.
The countdown is on. Join our race to the finish line.
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About Imran Khan
Imran Khan is a former international cricketer and the founder of Shaukat Khanum in Pakistan. Shaukat Khanum is a charitable hospital built on the belief that compassion should have no barriers. His vision to support ordinary families, regardless of their circumstances, has inspired people in Pakistan and around the world to unite in giving.
What began as one project has grown into a global mission of hope for those in need.
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The Early Years
Imran Ahmed Khan Niazi was born on October 5, 1952. He was the second of five siblings. His father, Ikramullah Khan Niazi, was a civil engineer. His mother, Shaukat Khanum, was part of a family of professional sportsmen and Sufi poets.
Known for her strength and resolve, Shaukat Khanum passed away in 1985 at the age of 63 after being diagnosed with colon cancer.
The experience had a lasting impact on Imran Khan and moved him to build a cancer support facility in her memory. Today, Shaukat Khanum stands as a place of dignity and hope for families in need.
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The Cricketer
Imran Khan was passionate about cricket from a young age.
His family included many distinguished players. His cousins Javed Burki and Majid Khan both captained Pakistan’s national team. Following their example, Imran spent much of his youth developing his skills. He continued to play while studying at the University of Oxford.
After graduating in 1976, he began his career as a full-time cricketer. He quickly established himself as an exceptional bowler and all-round batsman. In 1982, he was appointed captain of the national side. He achieved his greatest sporting success ten years later: Pakistan’s first Cricket World Cup victory in 1992.
At 73, fans still celebrate his bowling and his efforts to make international cricket fairer through neutral umpires.
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The Philanthropist
Imran Khan: “My biggest prize money in cricket was winning the World Cup in 1992. The total amount was £90,000. I gave all of that to the hospital and 15-20 per cent of my subsequent earnings”. (FT.com)
Imran Khan made his first public appeal for Shaukat Khanum in 1989. It was during a cricket match between Pakistan and India in Lahore. This marked the beginning of a campaign that would attract support from around the world.
After captaining Pakistan to World Cup victory, public interest in Shaukat Khanum grew. But as the opening date drew near, funds were still short. Imran Khan launched a six-week fundraising drive across Pakistan. Supporters responded quickly, helping raise £1.5 million to keep the build on track.
From the start, Imran Khan took personal responsibility for raising funds for the project.
His wider initiatives include the Imran Khan Foundation and Namal Institute in Mianwali. They are part of Namal Knowledge City, which focuses on education and technical training.
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Support Imran Khan’s Mission
31 years ago, Imran Khan and our early supporters turned a bold idea into reality. This Ramadan, you can help build on their legacy.
By giving Sadaqah Jariyah, you can help open Shaukat Khanum Karachi in December 2026. And by donating your Zakat, you can continue helping those who rely on our support across Pakistan.
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