World Record Achieved: 2,432 Women and Girls Perform Lavani Together in Chandrapur
World Record Achieved: 2,432 Women and Girls Perform Lavani Together in Chandrapur
History was created in Chandrapur as Maharashtra’s iconic folk dance, Lavani, found a proud place on the global stage. At exactly 6:17 PM on Sunday, March 1, the city witnessed an extraordinary cultural spectacle when 2,432 women and schoolgirls performed seven Lavani routines together within 7 minutes and 30 seconds, establishing a new world record officially recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records.
The grand cultural initiative was jointly organized by Utkrushta Mahila Bahuuddeshiya Sanstha, Chandrapur, and Somaiya Group of Institutes. Participants from various schools across the city came together for the historic presentation, turning the evening into a celebration of tradition, discipline, and collective spirit.
Clad in the traditional Nauvari saree, the performers displayed energetic expressions, precise footwork, and synchronized movements that captivated the audience. Their coordinated performance not only highlighted the richness of Maharashtra’s heritage but also demonstrated remarkable dedication and preparation.
This achievement surpassed the previous record set in 2017 at Kolhapur, where 1,336 participants had performed Lavani together. Breaking that nine-year-old milestone, Chandrapur successfully set a new benchmark. The event gained international attention, with its broadcast reaching audiences across 180 countries, giving Maharashtra’s cultural identity global visibility.
Pandurang Ambatkar of Somaiya Group of Institutes served as the chief organizer of the event. Chhabu Vairagade of Utkrushta Mahila Manch, Secretary Sakshi Karlekar, and Founder President P. S. Ambatkar of Somaiya Group of Institutes formally received the world record certificate amid loud cheers and celebrations from the people of Chandrapur.
Chandrapur sets a global benchmark in folk performance.
— Ravivar Vichar (@RavivarVichar) March 3, 2026
With 2,432 women presenting 20 synchronized Lavani dances in 20 minutes, the event has been officially recorded by the Guinness World Records.
A defining achievement for Maharashtra. pic.twitter.com/5o5ocvFWXZ
A dedicated team from the Guinness Book of World Records was present on-site to authenticate the achievement. Officials meticulously monitored every aspect of the performance, from participant count to timing and coordination, before officially confirming the record.
The original plan had envisioned participation from nearly 5,000 women and girls performing 20 Lavani routines over 20 continuous minutes. However, the final record-setting presentation featured 2,700 performers delivering seven Lavani dances within the stipulated 7 minutes and 30 seconds.
Chanda Club Ground served as the venue for the historic event, drawing hundreds of spectators who gathered to witness the landmark moment firsthand. Organizers emphasized that the primary objective was to earn global recognition for Maharashtra’s traditional Lavani dance, inspire pride among the younger generation, and promote Marathi language and culture on an international platform.
According to Chhabu Vairagade, Utkrushta Mahila Manch has consistently worked toward women’s empowerment, preservation of cultural heritage, social awareness initiatives, youth skill development, and strengthening community unity through various impactful programs. This world record event stands as a reflection of those sustained efforts.
Guided by Pandurang Ambatkar and President Chhabutai Vairagade, the organizing team worked tirelessly to ensure the program’s flawless execution. Financial backing for the initiative was extended by Pandurang Ambatkar, Founder President of Somaiya Group of Institutions, enabling the large-scale coordination required for the event.
