Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, July 28: Determination met devotion in a breathtaking feat of endurance and artistry, as Remona Evette Pereira etched her name in history with a 170-hour continuous Bharatanatyam performance, earning her a place in the Golden Book of World Records.
The official recognition was presented by Dr Manish Vishnoei, Asia Head of the Golden Book of World Records, during a ceremony at St Aloysius (Deemed to be University) on Monday, July 28.
“It was something few would dare attempt,” remarked Dr Vishnoei. “Bharatanatyam is one of the most challenging classical dance forms — not merely movement, but expression of every word, every emotion through the body. When we received Remona’s application, I initially recommended a five-day performance, thinking it would be more than sufficient. But she had other plans. She insisted on continuing for seven days. Completing 10,200 minutes of dance with little sleep is almost unimaginable — but Remona made the impossible possible.”
He added that her unwavering perseverance, mental strength, and what he called a “touch of divine grace” enabled her to go far beyond the existing world record of 127 hours, setting a new benchmark.
Dr Vishnoei also acknowledged the steadfast support of Dr Praveen Martis, vice chancellor of St Aloysius, and the network of friends and well-wishers who stood by her throughout.
University applauds a proud daughter
“This is a moment of pride not just for Remona, but for the entire university community,” said Dr Praveen Martis. “She first approached me with this vision two years ago. Last year, we reached out to the Golden Book to explore its feasibility. It’s not just a test of physical endurance—it’s a profound tribute to the spiritual depth and tradition of Bharatanatyam,” he added.
Recalling a pivotal moment during the performance, he shared, “Once she crossed the 127-hour mark, I asked her gently if she wanted to stop. She looked at me with quiet determination and said she was going to finish what she started. And she did — 170 hours of grace and grit.”
Not just dance—A state of meditation
Describing the atmosphere in the auditorium, Fr Melwin Pinto, rector of St Aloysius Institutions, said, “Words fall short. ‘Congratulations’ feels too small for what she has done. This wasn’t just a performance — it was meditation. One may survive without food, but to dance for days with barely any sleep is beyond imagination.”
The feat was supported by round-the-clock medical assistance. Teams of interns and doctors worked on rotation to monitor her vitals. Despite minor headaches and fatigue, Remona remained resolute. Her diet was kept simple—mainly fruits, dry fruits, and light meals.
Soojal, a member of the Horizon Dance Team and one of her closest supporters, stood by her side throughout the attempt. Fighting back emotion, he recalled, “We were with her day and night. The first two days were quiet, not many spectators. But soon, the hall filled up—even at midnight. People came, some stayed for hours, some returned daily. Her teachers, friends, and especially her parents gave her strength. We believed in her completely.”
A journey of 13 years
Remona’s mentor, Dr Vidya Muralidharan, founder of Saurabha Natyalaya, reflected on the journey that led to this moment. “Remona has been learning Bharatanatyam under me for 13 years. She has always danced with her heart. What she achieved was not just a record, but a revival of the elegance and complexity of Bharatanatyam for the younger generation. It has reignited curiosity and admiration for classical dance.”
To sustain such an extended performance, Dr Vidya curated a special three-hour audio set of Bharatanatyam compositions in various Dravidian languages, with a few strategic repetitions to match the duration of the dance marathon. “She began her attempt on July 21 and completed it with a calm, almost divine composure,” the teacher added.
Among those present at the felicitation ceremony were MLC Ivan D’Souza, Remona’s mother Gladis Celine, and fellow artistes who had watched the performance unfold over the week.
A timeless tribute
What Remona Evette Pereira has accomplished is not merely a personal milestone—it is a cultural statement. In an age where traditional art forms struggle to hold the attention of the digital generation, her feat stands as a shining tribute to discipline, endurance, and the spiritual depth of Indian classical dance. For those who witnessed it, her seven-day dance was more than a record—it was a revelation.