Remona Evette Pereira, a 20-year-old BA student from St Aloysius College, Mangaluru, has made history by performing Bharatanatyam continuously for an unprecedented 170 hours between July 21 and July 28, 2025. Officially recognised by the Golden Book of World Records, her marathon shattered the previous record of 127 hours set merely two years ago.
Dancing at the university campus with only a 15-minute break every three hours, Remona captivated audiences and earned praise from officials, cultural leaders, and religious figures alike. Her feat emerged not just as a display of extraordinary stamina and skill but as a moving tribute to India’s classical arts and cultural harmony.
A Marathon of Grace, Devotion, and Community Spirit
For seven days almost non-stop, Remona showcased the beauty and rigour of Bharatanatyam, one of India’s oldest classical dance forms. Her performance demonstrated mastery over intricate footwork, precise hand gestures (mudras), emotive facial expressions, and the complex rhythms characteristic of this dance tradition. Starting the marathon with prayers to Lord Ganesha and concluding with a solemn devotion to Goddess Durga, Remona wove spirituality seamlessly into her art.
Her Guru, Dr Shrividya Muralidhar, described this achievement as “a feat that must be written in golden letters,” praising Remona’s incredible mental and physical balance, which she deemed “divine.” The event attracted an enthusiastic audience including students, art admirers, political figures such as the Deputy Commissioner, local MLAs and ministers, and religious leaders like the Bishop of Mangalore, reflecting a vibrant community backing. Dr Manish Vishnoi, Asia head of the Golden Book of World Records, lauded the feat as “unimaginable,” describing the endurance shown in maintaining energy, grace, and concentration for over 10,000 minutes as truly awe-inspiring.
The Journey of Preparation, Perseverance, and Legacy
Remona’s journey was far from spontaneous. For 13 years, she rigorously trained under Guru Sri Vidya, honing her technique, stamina, and expressive skills. Preparation for this record attempt intensified over months, with Remona practising for five to six hours daily to build the resilience required for the grueling physical and mental demands. Her dedication extended beyond the dance studio; her mother, Gladis Pereira, and a closely-knit team of friends and volunteers stood by her side, offering unwavering emotional and logistical support throughout the week-long ordeal.
St Aloysius College, led by Vice-Chancellor Fr. Praveen Martis, provided comprehensive support — from ensuring medical assistance to setting up resting arrangements during breaks. Fr. Martis reminisced about Remona’s initial expression of ambition to break the record, celebrating this monumental achievement as “170 hours of grace and grit.” Apart from Bharatanatyam, Remona is proficient in semi-classical, western, and contemporary dances and has previously earned spots in other record books such as the India Book of Records and the Golden Book of Records, London — a testament to her versatile talent and commitment to dance.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Remona Evette Pereira’s record-shattering Bharatanatyam performance exemplifies the transformative power of human perseverance, the richness of India’s classical heritage, and the strength that community support can bring. In an era when India’s traditional arts often face challenges from rapidly changing cultural landscapes, stories like Remona’s inspire us to honour our roots while nurturing innovation and inclusivity.
Moreover, the convergence of support from Hindu and Christian leaders enlivens a spirit of harmony and shared cultural pride — a reminder that art transcends religious and social boundaries.
The Logical Indian believes this achievement will motivate not just aspiring dancers but all young artists to pursue their dreams with dedication and resilience. It also calls for institutions, communities, and policymakers to strengthen support systems for classical arts, fostering an environment where talent can thrive sustainably.
