17 July,2025 03:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Akshay Kumar
In a powerful and proactive move that underscores his longstanding respect for the action community, Akshay Kumar has personally insured the lives of 650 stuntmen and stuntwomen across India, shining a much-needed spotlight on this overlooked community of the film industry. His initiative comes at a time when safety concerns in the entertainment world are once again in focus, following the unfortunate death of stuntman Raju on the set of Pa Ranjith and actor Arya's upcoming Tamil film.
For years, stunt performers have put their lives on the line to create high-risk action scenes, often without proper safety equipment or medical support. Most of them have little to no insurance, which means even a minor injury can lead to huge medical bills and loss of income. Their families live in constant worry, knowing that one accident could change their lives forever. Akshay Kumar is giving them more than just insurance; he's making them feel seen, valued, and a little more secure about their future.
Vikram Singh Dahiya, a seasoned stunt professional who has worked on films like Dhadak 2, Jigra, Gunjan Saxena, Antim, and OMG 2, expressed his gratitude towards Akshay Kumar for the initiative. "Thanks to Akshay sir, around 650 to 700 stuntmen and action crew members in Bollywood are now covered under insurance," he shared. "The policy includes both health and accident coverage. If a stunt performer is injured, whether on or off set, they can avail of cashless medical treatment up to Rs 5 to Rs 5.5 lakh."
Reportedly, he has been paying a premium of Rs 6 crore since 2017 when he launched this initiative.
His efforts have not only been deeply appreciated by the stunt community but are also being viewed as a benchmark for how individuals in positions of power can bring about real, lasting change.
The safety of stunt artists was once again highlighted fter the tragic demise of stuntman S M Raju on the sets of Pa Ranjith's film. The 52-year-old stuntman, whose real name was Mohan Raj, was driving an SUV in a high-octane stunt scene for the film in Nagapattinam on July 13 when he suddenly collapsed. His colleagues pulled him out of the vehicle and rushed him to a hospital where he was declared brought dead.
