Chennai: A karate expert and supporter of AIADMK chief Jayalalithaa ‘crucified’ himself on Monday as he demanded the leader’s return as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister.
Shihan Hussaini’s aides nailed him on a wooden cross, where he remained hanging for more than six minutes. A video shows Hussaini’s aides digging 6-inch nails into his hand and feet as dozens of AIADMK workers looked on.
Shihan was on cross for 6 minutes and 7seconds to commemorate Jayalalithaa’s upcoming 67th birthday.
“There is no Indian who has crucified himself for some cause. There is no one across the globe who has done this. I love Madam and whenever we went to her, she had always helped us. I just did this for her long life and for her to come back as the chief minister,” Hussaini told PTI.
“I am big admirer of her (Jayalalithaa). I was laughed at for this event. I was told it was an AIADMK stunt. No AIADMK Minister was here when I crucified myself today,” he said.
On why he undertook crucification, Hussain said he is an expert in karate, a martial art form where pain, tolerance and self-control are major components of training.
“I strongly feel prayers are heard and the Cross is a powerful symbol,” he said.
Hussaini who did his schooling in Christian institutions, said his family did not support him when he informed them about the event.
“My wife was apprehensive and my sister said she would even file a police complaint. But I know my body and went ahead with my proposal,” he said.
Doctors from Global Hospitals and Fortis Malar accompanied Hussaini during the event. “I was taken to the hospital and now I am alright. There is no major injury to nerves or bones,” he said.
Jayalalithaa resigned from the chief minister’s post after she was arrested and jailed in a disproportionate assets case.
(Agencies)
