Editor Mahmoud Muhammad
Arshid Ali Khan, a 13-year-old from Punjab state in India, is being worshipped by locals who see him as an incarnation of the Hindu monkey god Hanuman because of a 7-inch tail-like growth on his back.
Known as Balaji, the teenager receives daily visits from people who come to seek blessings, offer gifts, and leave money as a sign of respect. He told http://nairaland.com that he sees the condition as a gift from God and feels special because of the respect he receives.
Medical experts say Balaji’s condition is likely meningocele, a form of spina bifida caused by abnormal development of the spinal cord. He is already wheelchair-bound and suffers from twisted limbs, which doctors warn could worsen in the coming years.
Doctors have recommended surgery to remove the growth, but the decision rests with Balaji and his family. His grandfather, Iqbal Qureshi, said they would support his choice, adding that his health is the priority.
Despite the medical advice, Balaji believes people’s faith in him will not change even if the tail is removed. He said visitors will continue to seek his advice and believe in his “powers” regardless of the outcome of any surgery.
About The Author
