There are billions of people in the world, each living vastly different lives. But some stories stand out, like that of Amou Haji, a man who chose a life far from the norm. His decision not to shower for 67 years is one such story, and his reason might surprise you.

For most people, bathing is a regular part of life. While there might be debates about how often one should shower, it’s generally accepted that it’s necessary. However, Amou Haji, an Iranian hermit, defied this norm entirely. He chose not to bathe for over six decades, and he had a serious reason for doing so.

Hailing from the village of Dez Gah in Iran, Amou Haji, believed to have been born in 1928, became widely known as the “world’s dirtiest man.” Though his real name remained unknown, locals affectionately called him “Amou Haji,” which means “old man” in Persian. He lived a reclusive life, subsisting on roadkill and, as strange as it sounds, was known to smoke animal dung in a pipe.

A rumor spread in his village that a great heartbreak early in life led Haji to isolate himself and forgo hygiene entirely. He lived in a cinderblock home on the outskirts of the village, where the locals accepted him despite his unusual lifestyle.

The only grooming he did was burning his hair and beard with fire whenever they grew too long. His skin and hair eventually turned a uniform grey from years of dirt and grime, further adding to his legendary status.

Amou Haji’s life was certainly unconventional, but his story remains a striking reminder of the many different ways people navigate the world.