At an age when most toddlers are still mastering their first steps, one-year-old Nirvi Harigeeth from Pappanamcode has sprinted her way into the record books.
Nirvi has been recognised by the International Book of Records as the youngest to achieve the ‘fastest 50-metre barefoot run by a toddler’, completing the distance in 46 seconds and breaking the previous record of 54 seconds.
Record set on first attempt
According to her parents, Harisankar and Geethu, Nirvi began walking about a month after turning one and quickly transitioned to running barefoot almost everywhere.
Noticing her unusual speed, the couple decided to attempt a record. They took her to Chandrasekharan Nair Stadium, choosing the venue for its synthetic track surface. As per guidelines, she had to run in a straight line — a challenge for most toddlers.
To their surprise, Nirvi broke the existing record on her very first attempt on November 16, 2025. Confirmation from the International Book of Records arrived in December.
She has also earned recognition from the India Book of Records as the ‘youngest to run 100 metres’ and from the Kerala Book of Records for her 50-metre run.
Encouraged, never pressured
Her parents say they encourage her interests without pressure. Even before her birth, Geethu had envisioned raising her in a stimulating environment filled with books and learning aids. Nirvi can reportedly identify around 300 objects using flash cards.
The family is now preparing for another record attempt, supporting her passions while ensuring her childhood remains joyful and balanced.