As Covid-19 cases surge in India, one man decided to take matters into his own hands.

Dressed as a clown

Ashok Kurmi is a self employed worker with a pharmaceutical company in India.

As someone who is passionate in social work, Kurmi has found a unique way to help and protect his community.

He dresses himself as a clown and disinfects slums in Mumbai.

He also hands out masks to children and inform residents more about Covid-19.

Believes clown is associated with happiness

Speaking to Reuters, Kurmi said:

"Covid has been here for two years, and during that time I've done different things for children and adults to spread information given out by the government.

I spread awareness to kids by telling them to wear masks, to keep their hands clean, and maintain social distancing. I try to spread information which can save lives from the coronavirus."

Kurmi, who has been working since he was 14 years old, also said that he wears other different costumes aside from dressing up as a clown.

According to Kurmi's Facebook page, his other costumes include Santa Claus and Spider-Man.

He had chosen the clown outfit as he believes a clown is associated with happiness.

However, Kurmi added: "Now is not the time for happiness, we need to stay healthy and stay safe."

20 million cases in India

Covid-19 cases have crossed the 20 million mark in India.

On May 4, 2021, the country recorded 357,229 new cases, and the number of deaths increased to 222,408.

This makes the India second to the U.S. in the total number of Covid-19 cases.

Top images from Ashok Kurmi/FB.