Akshay Kumar Takes Decisive Action Following Fatal Stunt Accident That Shocked the Film Industry
After the untimely death of veteran stuntman SM Raju during the filming of Vettuvam, Bollywood star Akshay Kumar has introduced a wide-ranging insurance plan to protect India’s stunt professionals. The new initiative covers over 650 action crew members, offering both health and accident insurance. The program aims to safeguard these high-risk performers who are often overlooked when it comes to health benefits and workplace protection.
The tragic incident, captured on video and widely circulated online, has intensified concerns regarding the safety protocols followed on film sets across the country. In response, Akshay Kumar insures stunt professionals not only with financial coverage but also by bringing attention to an issue long neglected by the Indian film industry.
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Insurance Plan Covers Both On-Set and Off-Set Accidents for Action Crew Members Across the Country
The insurance initiative launched by Akshay Kumar provides comprehensive medical coverage of up to ₹5–5.5 lakh for stunt professionals injured either on set or off set. This means that even non-filming injuries are covered, an important feature given the demanding physical lifestyles of these workers. In fatal cases, the plan offers a life insurance payout between ₹20–25 lakh to the nominee of the deceased.
Veteran stunt coordinator Vikram Singh Dahiya, who has worked on projects like Gunjan Saxena, Antim, OMG 2, and the upcoming Dhadak 2, praised the actor’s efforts. He confirmed that close to 700 members of the action crew now benefit from this much-needed safety net.
“This initiative by Akshay sir is not only a financial relief but also emotional support for thousands of families who rely on this profession,” Dahiya noted. “It sends a message that their lives matter.”
The Tragic Death of SM Raju on ‘Vettuvam’ Set Highlighted the Urgent Need for Industry-Wide Reforms
The catalyst for this insurance initiative was the tragic death of SM Raju, a veteran stunt artist with decades of experience. The fatal accident occurred on July 13 during the shoot of Pa Ranjith’s Tamil film Vettuvam, featuring actor Arya. The stunt involved a high-speed car flip that went disastrously wrong when the vehicle lost control, flipped multiple times in the air, and landed headfirst.
Despite immediate rescue attempts, Raju succumbed to his injuries on the spot. The horrifying footage from the shoot sparked national outrage and triggered demands for accountability, not only from the public but also from prominent industry figures such as Baahubali stunt coordinator Lee Whittaker and music composer Vishal.
Akshay Kumar’s Initiative Builds on a Long-Standing Commitment to Protect India’s Stunt Community
This is not the first time Akshay Kumar insures stunt professionals or has stepped forward to address industry safety issues. In 2017, the actor partnered with the Movie Stunt Artistes Association to provide insurance to nearly 380 stunt artists aged 18–55. That plan offered ₹6 lakh in medical coverage and ₹10 lakh in life insurance.
Building on that foundation, Kumar has now extended the initiative to cover nearly double the number of individuals. Importantly, he continues to fund the premium costs out of his own pocket. General Secretary Aejaz Khan of the Stunt Artists Association confirmed this, stating, “He doesn’t just talk about change—he puts his money where his mouth is.”
Akshay Kumar’s long-standing relationship with the stunt community is rooted in his own background as a trained martial artist and action hero, making his involvement both personal and impactful.
Industry Veterans Call for More Comprehensive Measures Beyond Akshay’s Personal Intervention
While Akshay Kumar insures stunt professionals through his private initiative, industry insiders argue that broader, systemic changes are essential to prevent future tragedies. Experts suggest that safety training, standardised stunt procedures, and legal oversight should be made mandatory by film regulatory bodies.
Calls have also emerged for including other action-related workers such as riggers, drivers, VFX coordinators, and junior stunt doubles under similar insurance schemes. “We must institutionalise safety. It can’t depend on one actor’s goodwill,” said a veteran action director who preferred to remain anonymous.
Akshay’s action, while commendable, may now force production houses and state bodies to rethink their obligations toward behind-the-scenes heroes.
New Safety Protocols and Technologies Suggested to Prevent Future Fatalities on Indian Film Sets
Following the fatal accident involving SM Raju, many experts have advocated the use of safer technologies. These include remote-controlled stunt vehicles, digital simulations, crash dummies, and pre-recorded sequences to avoid life-threatening risks.
Lee Whittaker, known for his work in Baahubali, said, “This kind of stunt should never be performed without full automation. Lives should not be risked for a shot.” Although director Pa Ranjith stated that all required safety protocols had been followed during Raju’s shoot, critics argue that even approved safety standards often fail under real-world conditions.
The incident has reignited the conversation about how India can align with international standards of stunt safety observed in Hollywood and South Korean cinema.
Akshay Kumar’s Insurance Initiative Marks a Turning Point for Stunt Safety in Indian Cinema
At a time when the Indian film industry is under increasing scrutiny for workplace safety, Akshay Kumar insures stunt professionals not as a symbolic gesture but as a real, measurable intervention. This program provides both health and financial security to a vulnerable section of film workers, giving them the peace of mind to do their jobs without fear.
While the government and industry at large are still slow to act, Akshay Kumar’s decisive move has set a benchmark. It is now up to other industry leaders and regulatory bodies to build upon it and ensure that no more lives are lost due to preventable safety oversights.
A Hero On and Off Screen, Akshay Kumar Champions Those Who Risk It All for Entertainment
The tragic loss of SM Raju has shaken the foundation of India’s film production safety standards. But it has also inspired meaningful change. Akshay Kumar’s swift and substantial action ensures that hundreds of stunt professionals will no longer go uninsured or unsupported.
By providing comprehensive insurance to the people who make movie magic happen, Kumar has not only honoured the memory of SM Raju but also raised the bar for what it means to be a responsible and humane film star in today’s India.
