- By Shivangi Sharma
- Sun, 15 Jun 2025 04:32 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
As the world reels from the tragic Ahmedabad plane crash, the miraculous survival of Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, the sole survivor, has captured global attention. But while Ramesh's story is astounding, it brings to mind another man whose life seems almost scripted for cinema: Frane Selak, the Croatian music teacher known as the “world’s luckiest unlucky man.”
Selak’s bizarre journey began in January 1962 when a train he was on derailed and plunged into an icy river. While 17 passengers drowned, Selak was pulled to safety, suffering only a broken arm and hypothermia.
Blown Out of a Plane (1963)
A year later, during his first-ever flight, Selak claimed he was blown out of a malfunctioning aircraft door and landed safely in a haystack. The plane reportedly crashed, killing 19. No official records confirm such an incident in Croatia in 1963, casting doubt on the story.
River Strikes Again (1966)
Selak narrowly escaped death once more in 1966, when the bus he was riding skidded into a river. While four passengers drowned, he swam to shore with minor injuries.
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Flames On Road (1970 & 1973)
In 1970, Selak’s car caught fire while driving, and he jumped out just before it exploded. Then, in 1973, another car incident saw hot oil spray through air vents, singeing off all of his hair but sparing his life once again.
Hit By Bus, Thrown from a Cliff (1995–1996)
His car plunged 300 feet, but Selak, who wasn’t wearing a seatbelt, was ejected and caught a tree branch mid-air, surviving yet again.
Twist Of Fortune: Winning Lottery
Two days after his 73rd birthday, Selak won €900,000 in the lottery. He bought two houses and a boat but later gave away most of his fortune, preferring a frugal lifestyle.
Despite the fascination his stories inspire, none of Selak’s claims have been independently verified. Some accounts contradict each other or lack supporting evidence.