In an achievement that has stunned the cultural world, Remona Evette Pereira, a final-year BA student at St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), Mangaluru, has danced her way into history. She performed Bharatanatyam continuously for 170 hours, setting a new world record.
The performance began on July 21, 2025, and concluded on July 28, spanning seven days of uninterrupted dedication. The Golden Book of World Records officially recognised her accomplishment, making her the first person ever to sustain this classical art form for such a long stretch.
A Stage That Became a Pilgrimage
For a full week, the campus hosting the performance turned into a hub of celebration and devotion to art. Teachers, students, dignitaries, and art enthusiasts travelled to witness the spectacle. The atmosphere was charged with emotion as audiences cheered her on, often staying for hours to support her.
According to officials, Remona was permitted only a 15-minute pause every three hours. Dr. Manish Vishnoi, India’s representative of the Golden Book of World Records, explained that she qualified for the record once she crossed 120 hours. “But she decided to go the full seven days. That kind of persistence is rare,” he said.
From a Three-Year-Old Learner to a Record-Breaker
Remona’s connection with Bharatanatyam goes back to her early childhood. She began training at the age of three under her guru, Shrividya Muralidhar, and made her solo stage debut (rangapravesha) in 2019. This week-long record attempt stands as the culmination of years of discipline, resilience, and artistic passion.
More Than a Record
While Remona has secured her place in world records, the feat carries a larger meaning. Her journey reflects not only her personal determination but also the timeless endurance of Bharatanatyam itself. Social media has been flooded with clips of her performance, sparking admiration both in India and abroad.
Her achievement is already being celebrated as an inspiration for future dancers. As many spectators remarked, she didn’t just perform—she embodied the spirit of Bharatanatyam, proving that tradition and perseverance can together create history.