Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar has once again shown his dedication to the welfare of the film industry’s unsung heroes by providing insurance coverage to over 650 stunt professionals. This follows the tragic death of veteran stuntman SM Raju during a shoot for a Tamil film. Raju’s sudden death has sparked discussions about the need for better safety measures for stunt artists, prompting Akshay to take important steps to ensure their safety and well-being.
Akshay Kumar, known for performing his own daring stunts, first launched this insurance program in 2017 in partnership with Dr. Ramakanta Panda and ICICI Lombard. Initially meant to cover about 380 stuntmen and women, the program has now grown to include nearly 700 individuals. Under this plan, stunt performers can receive cashless medical treatment up to ₹5–5.5 lakh for injuries sustained on or off set. If a fatal accident occurs, the nominee will get ₹20–25 lakh in compensation. This considerable safety net provides financial support to those who risk their lives every day for exciting cinematic action.
Vikram Singh Dahiya, a well-known stunt coordinator, praised Akshay’s efforts and emphasized how this coverage fills a crucial gap for artists aged 18 to 55. Many of them previously had no health or accident insurance. Ejaz Gulab, General Secretary of the Movie Stunt Artists Association, also recognized the actor’s vital role in closing this safety gap. Gulab noted that Akshay’s involvement has brought peace of mind to many families, providing them with security in a profession that often goes unrecognized for its dangers.
The tragic incident involving SM Raju happened during a complex car-toppling stunt directed by Pa Ranjith. Despite improvements in safety protocols, such as specialized harnesses, reinforced chassis, and fuel control systems, experts like Dahiya acknowledge that stunt work always carries risks. This is especially true in high-stakes action scenes performed under intense conditions.
Akshay Kumar’s initiative reflects not only his personal sense of responsibility but also serves as a call for the film industry to prioritize the safety of its stunt community. His efforts underscore the urgent need for standard guidelines, stricter safety measures, and formal support systems for those who work behind the scenes to create thrilling moments on screen. Through this thoughtful action, Akshay highlights the importance of recognizing and protecting the individuals who make the magic of cinema possible.
