Arshid Ali Khan
India- Arshid Ali Khan: The Indian Teenager with a Tail
- A Unique Life
- A Difficult Decision
- An Ordinary Boy with an Extraordinary Feature
Arshid Ali Khan: The Indian Teenager with a Tail
Arshid Ali Khan is a 13-year-old Indian teenager from the state of Punjab who has gained attention due to a genetic anomaly that resulted in the growth of a tail. However, this unique characteristic has not been a source of suffering for Arshid. On the contrary, the local community has revered him as a divine figure and sees him as the embodiment of the monkey god Hanuman. Arshid takes his "divine" responsibilities seriously and carries them out with dignity.
A Unique Life
Arshid Ali Khan resides with his grandfather and two uncles as his father has passed away. Due to his condition, Arshid is unable to move independently and relies on a wheelchair for transportation. He has a tail that grows from his lower back, measuring 17 centimeters in length. However, neither Arshid nor his family view this as a tragedy. In fact, the boy takes pleasure in his situation, as the local residents consider him a earthly manifestation of Hanuman. Arshid's family home has been transformed into a temple-like environment, and people frequently visit him, seeking his assistance. Despite his unique circumstances, Arshid still attends school and meticulously plans his time to fulfill his "divine" duties as long as people believe in him.
A Difficult Decision
Recently, medical professionals advised Arshid to consider removing his tail, as it could pose serious health risks in the future. The tail could potentially lead to spinal bifida, which may result in severe paralysis. Some doctors believe that the tail developed due to a spinal hernia. Regardless, the unanimous opinion among medical professionals is that it would be best for Arshid to undergo surgery. However, Arshid believes that his tail is a gift from God, and therefore, he cannot easily part with it. He is still considering the possibility of removal but has not definitively made up his mind. Ultimately, the decision regarding his tail rests with Arshid himself, as his grandfather has made it clear that he alone can determine his own fate.
An Ordinary Boy with an Extraordinary Feature
Despite his role as the reincarnation of a deity, Arshid appears like any other Indian boy. He enjoys playing with his peers, despite being confined to his wheelchair. He claims that his classmates do not tease him, but they are curious and eager to see his tail, which he proudly showcases without reservation. Arshid has a philosophical outlook on his tail, viewing it as a simple gift from God. As a result, he does not contemplate whether it is good or bad. He lives his life as it is given to him.
Unfortunately, Arshid's family does take the words of the doctors into consideration, and soon he will have to decide whether to live with his tail or remove it.
