Breaking news: Indian student sets a new record in Bharatanatyam dance by performing for an astronomical 170 hours straight.
In a breathtaking display of artistic dedication, stamina, and love for Indian classical arts, 20-year-old Remona Evette Pereira from Mangalore has set a new world record by performing Bharatanatyam nonstop for 170 hours (over 7 days) at the Robert Sequeira Hall of St. Aloysius College, Mangaluru.
From July 21 to July 28, 2025, Remona, a final-year BA student at St. Aloysius College, captivated audiences with her mesmerizing dance marathon. She danced continuously, taking only a 15-minute break every three hours. This extraordinary feat surpassed the previous record of 127 hours, set two years ago.
The performance was a spiritual journey, beginning with an invocation to Lord Ganesha and ending with a devotional piece to Goddess Durga. It showcased Remona's mastery over the complex elements of Bharatanatyam, including intricate footwork, precise mudras, expressive facial work, and rhythmic control.
The event attracted a wide community of supporters, including students, government officials, religious figures, and art lovers. Remona's guru, Dr. Shrividya Muralidhar, hailed the achievement as a "feat that must be written in golden letters" and praised Remona's mental and physical balance as "divine."
The performance was officially recognized by the Golden Book of World Records. Following her record-breaking performance, Manish Vishnoei, head of the Golden Book of World Records, presented Remona with a Certificate of Excellence.
Remona's achievement is a significant milestone in Bharatanatyam history, emphasizing endurance, cultural pride, and artistic excellence. It is more than just a dance marathon; it is a testament to Remona's unwavering passion for the arts and her commitment to preserving India's rich cultural heritage.
Key Accomplishments and Facts:
- Duration: 170 hours nonstop (7 days + 2 hours)
- Recognition: Golden Book of World Records
- Previous record: 127 hours (set 2 years earlier)
- Breaks: 15-minute break every 3 hours
- Venue: St. Aloysius College, Mangaluru campus
- Spiritual elements: Started with Lord Ganesha invocation, ended with Goddess Durga devotion
- Age & Background: 20 years old, final-year BA student
- Community support: Wide attendance including political leaders, religious figures, students, and art lovers
- Praise: Acclaimed for stamina, grace, concentration, and as a tribute to Indian classical arts
Remona's mother, Gladis Celine, expressed her pride, having stood by her daughter through every challenge and moment of triumph. In 2023, Remona received the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar, India's highest civilian honor for children, crediting her mother as her unwavering source of inspiration during a conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
This achievement not only demonstrates extraordinary endurance but also honors India’s classical arts and cultural heritage, turning the event into a celebrated cultural pilgrimage site.
During Remona's captivating dance marathon from July 21 to July 28, 2025, she not only showcased her mastery over Bharatanatyam but also demonstrated an immense love for sports, as she danced continuously for 170 hours, pushing her physical limits to set a new world record. After her record-breaking performance, she was recognized by the Golden Book of World Records for her incredible endurance and commitment to preserving India's rich cultural heritage.
