‘World’s Dirtiest Man’ Dies After His First Wash In 60 Years
Amou Haji, known as the “world’s dirtiest man,” passed away in October 2022 at age 96. The Iranian hermit gained notoriety for avoiding bathing for six decades, with layers of dirt making him appear “like a rock” when still.
Shortly before his death, villagers finally convinced Haji to wash—his first bath in over half a century. Tragically, he fell ill soon after and died months later, as reported by Iran’s IRNA news agency.
Experts suggest Haji may have suffered from ablutophobia, a rare anxiety disorder involving an intense fear of washing. Healthline describes this as a specific phobia that can stem from trauma or psychological distress.
Dr. Siva Yechoor of The Toledo Clinic explains that while true ablutophobia is uncommon, avoidance behaviors are sometimes seen in elderly individuals. The condition more frequently appears in children who’ve experienced traumatic events, like near-drowning incidents.
Haji reportedly avoided bathing because he believed cleanliness would make him sick. He spent his final years living in a dirt hole near a brick shack in rural Iran.
His unusual lifestyle was documented in the 2013 film *The Strange Life of Amou Haji*, which brought international attention to his story. Despite his extreme habits, locals accepted him as part of their community.
Haji’s passing marks the end of an extraordinary life that challenged societal norms about hygiene. While his fears may have been irrational to most, his story highlights the complex relationship between mental health and personal habits. Rest in peace, Amou Haji.
