Six-Year-Old Thevaky Breaks Record with Blindfolded Rappelling

A remarkable achievement unfolded on August 29, 2025, as six-year-old Thevaky B Rajkumar set a world record in blindfolded rappelling from a height of 155 feet. This extraordinary feat took place in Malaipattu, located in the Kancheepuram District of Tamil Nadu, India, coinciding with the country’s celebration of National Sports Day. The young athlete completed her descent in an impressive four minutes and thirty-two seconds, earning her recognition as the youngest girl to perform this daring challenge. Her accomplishment was officially certified by the Asia Book of Records, India Book of Records, and The Noble Book of World Records.

Thevaky, a Class 1 student at Good Earth School in Tambaram, is the daughter of Mrs. S. Bhavani and Mr. Rajkumar S.P., reflecting the potential that small towns like hers nurture in aspiring athletes. Her journey into the world of rappelling began not with ambition but a desire to conquer her fear of nature. Initially enrolled in a mountaineering class by her father, Thevaky transformed her anxiety into a passion, ultimately leading to her historic achievement.

Guidance and Training

Thevaky’s success was made possible by the dedicated training she received from experienced coaches. Mr. R. Thirulogachandran, General Secretary of the Tamil Nadu Mountaineering Association, served as her primary coach, supported by Mr. Ramanan. Their systematic training approach focused on building Thevaky’s confidence and skills over time. Thirulogachandran noted, “Thevaky I saw that morning was not the same little girl I met on the first day of training,” highlighting her remarkable transformation through consistent effort and encouragement.

Safety was paramount during the event. Before her attempt, Thevaky underwent thorough medical evaluations conducted by Dr. K. Vijaya Ragavan, a Consultant Paediatrician, and Dr. Vivek Arun Kumar, a Consultant Psychiatrist, both of whom confirmed her fitness for the challenge. On-site, a mini-hospital ambulance from Annai Arul Hospital was present, equipped for emergencies. Following the descent, a nurse conducted a health check, ensuring that Thevaky was stable and healthy.

A Symbol of Inspiration

The timing of Thevaky’s record-setting rappel was significant. National Sports Day is celebrated in memory of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand, with the 2025 theme focusing on promoting outdoor activities among children. Thevaky’s achievement serves as a powerful testament to this message, illustrating how determination and training can lead to extraordinary accomplishments.

Her mother, Bhavani, expressed pride in her daughter’s journey, stating, “When trained, anything is possible.” She emphasized that Thevaky’s decision to pursue rappelling came from her own interests rather than parental pressure, showcasing the importance of support in nurturing young talent.

The recognition Thevaky has received extends beyond local accolades. Her record has been acknowledged by notable organizations, underscoring its significance within the context of Indian sports. The Asia Book of Records and the India Book of Records have both noted her as the youngest to perform this feat, while The Noble Book of World Records has also recognized her achievement.

Thevaky’s accomplishment caught the attention of Thiru J. Meghanatha Reddy, IAS, Member Secretary of the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT), who invited her and her family for a congratulatory meeting. He encouraged Thevaky to continue pursuing her sporting aspirations, acknowledging her as an inspiring figure for future generations.

The significance of her achievement is amplified by India’s aspirations for the 2036 Olympics, with sport climbing expected to be a central discipline at the 2028 Los Angeles Games. Thevaky’s success reflects a growing momentum in Indian sports, particularly in adventure disciplines that have often been overlooked.

As India works towards a potential Olympic bid, it becomes increasingly important to foster talent in diverse sporting arenas. The New Education Policy (NEP) 2020 advocates for daily physical activity and the integration of sports into school curricula, reinforcing the need for broader participation in physical activities across the nation.

India’s natural landscapes, including the Himalayas, Western Ghats, and Aravallis, have long inspired interest in climbing among youth. With adequate coaching and institutional support, the inherent climbing potential of young athletes like Thevaky can be harnessed to develop Olympic-level competitors.

Climbing Toward a New Sporting Future

Thevaky’s blindfolded descent on National Sports Day 2025 transcended a mere record; it symbolized a nation poised to embrace its sporting potential and explore new frontiers. The courage displayed by this young girl from Tambaram serves as a reminder of the possibilities that await when talent meets opportunity. As India seeks to enhance its standing in the global sporting arena, stories like Thevaky’s highlight the importance of nurturing diverse athletic pursuits that inspire future generations to reach new heights.