In a significant move for the safety and welfare of film industry workers, actor Akshay Kumar has extended health and accident insurance to over 650 stunt performers across India. The initiative, quietly funded by the actor for several years, has gained renewed attention in the wake of the tragic death of veteran stuntman SM Raju during a film shoot in Chennai.

Known for performing his daring stunts, Akshay has long been vocal about the lack of institutional support for stunt professionals. “They risk their lives every day to make action scenes look real. This is the least we can do for them,” the actor had said earlier.

According to industry sources, the group insurance plan provides coverage of Rs 5 lakh to Rs 5.5 lakh towards hospitalisation and accident-related expenses, whether injuries occur on or off set. A senior stunt coordinator confirmed that several families have already benefited from the scheme. “Some of our colleagues received immediate medical treatment through this insurance. In unfortunate cases of loss, the families received much-needed financial support. We are truly grateful to Akshay sir for standing by us,” he said.

The programme is being managed in coordination with the Movie Stunt Artists Association, which oversees the welfare of stunt performers in the film industry. The association highlighted that most stunt artists work on a freelance basis, with no formal contracts, fixed income, or medical benefits.

For many within the community, the insurance coverage offers a rare sense of security. “Having this support ensures our families won’t face helplessness in the event of an incident,” said one stuntman.