Ram Prasad Tiwari is a 69-year-old performer who has been doing a dangerous stunt for nearly 50 years (Photo credit: Anuj Solanki)
BULANDSHAHR: At 69, Ram Prasad Tiwari, a stuntman, continues to perform a daring stunt during Ramleela events, setting himself on fire before jumping into a pool of water from a height of nearly 50 feet.Tiwari, a resident of Nand Nagri in northeast Delhi, performed the stunt at a Ramleela ground in Khurja area of Bulandshahr district.Speaking to TOI, he said he had been performing the dangerous act for nearly five decades.“I have been doing this stunt for almost 50 years,” Tiwari said, adding that he travels to different places to perform during the Ramleela season.For each day's performance, Tiwari receives Rs 8,000, which includes his travel expenses and accommodation.
The work, however, is seasonal, and he has to find alternative means of earning a livelihood during the rest of the year.Tiwari said he sells clothes in local markets during the off-season to support his family.He has five children, three sons and two daughters, of whom two are married. His wife is a homemaker.Despite his age, Tiwari continues to undertake the high-risk performance, which draws attention during Ramleela celebrations.
His act involves setting himself on fire and plunging into water from a height of around 50 feet.