Basori Lal, 50, from Madhya Pradesh, India, is only 29 inches tall. He was born an average height but his family noticed he stopped growing at the age of 5. Poverty stopped him visiting doctors and getting examined for a reason. The cause of his height then remains a mystery. /CFP

He may be small, but he became a big local celebrity in his village, visited by many curious travelers from surrounding areas. /CFP

His brother Gopi Lal, 55, who is in regular height, is living with Basori. Gopi explained that Basori is seen as a hero and his family feels blessed to have him. “We feel proud that people love and care for Basori,” said Gopi. /CFP

Basori is currently working in a factory to earn his living. Even though he used to be bullied in the village – villagers calling him an alien - the tough time has passed. “I am the only one who is being loved by the villagers,” said Basori. /CFP