Seven-year-old Samyuktha Narayanan from Madurai, India, has made history by becoming the youngest Taekwondo instructor ever. She earned a Guinness World Records (GWR) title at the age of seven years and 270 days. Samyuktha’s impressive skills and determination have inspired people around the world.
Samyuktha began her Taekwondo journey at just three years old. Her parents, Shruthy and Narayanan, run the Madurai Taekwondo Academy. Interestingly, both her parents are Guinness World Record holders too. Her father, Narayanan, holds the record for breaking the most flaming concrete blocks in 30 seconds (29) and the most marble slabs broken with a single kick (7). Her mother, Shruthy, holds the record for the most full-contact elbow strikes in one minute using alternate elbows.
Inspired by her parents' achievements, Samyuktha worked hard to earn her own place in the record books. “My father and mother are my biggest inspirations. I used to admire the Guinness World Records certificates achieved by my dad and mom hanging on the walls in our home. It was my goal to achieve a GWR title and hang my certificate on the same wall," she shared with GWR.
An internet sensation and role model
Samyuktha’s achievement has amazed people all over the internet. Guinness World Records shared her story on Instagram with a series of photos, captioning it, “Seven-year-old girl makes history as the youngest Taekwondo instructor ever, aged just seven years and 270 days old! Samyuktha Narayanan is an inspiration to fellow kids in Madurai, India, encouraging them to engage in sports."
People were quick to praise her. One user wrote, “Heartiest congratulations on achieving a world record at such a young age, Samyuktha. Your hard work, determination, and incredible talent are truly inspiring. You have not only made your family proud but have also set an example for other young dreamers to believe in themselves and strive for greatness." Another commented, “She is the inspiration of people who want to learn martial arts. Appreciate the upbringing of her parents." A third person added, “This just goes to show that kids can achieve great things."
Samyuktha’s journey to becoming an instructor wasn’t easy. To achieve her black belt from the World Taekwondo Headquarters in Korea, she had to run 5 km, complete tough workouts, and master the entire Taekwondo syllabus. Despite being the youngest in her group, she proved her strength and determination.
Expressing her happiness, Samyuktha said, “After I achieved my GWR title, I received appreciation from my friends, family, and teachers. My photos and videos were published in the newspaper and [shown on] television. I felt like a star in my city."