Punithamalar Rajashekar of SJK(T) Menglembu was awarded a Guinness World Record certificate on September 8. The award was for putting the pieces on a chessboard blindfolded in the world’s fastest time of 45.72 seconds.
Arranging 32 chess pieces may appear difficult, especially given the previous world record of 1.02 minutes held by an Indian boy. But this 10-year-old accomplished it in 45.72 seconds, earning her the title.
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R. Punithamalar attempted the Guinness World Record for the shortest time to arrange chess pieces while blindfolded on May 19.
Amazing Malaysian World Of Record
Image via FMT
Punithamalar’s father, Rajashekar stated that the Amazing Malaysian Book of Records performed the feat for the world record (fastest arrangement of chess pieces) at the school on May 19. All of the required recordings were then submitted to Guinness before the certificate was presented on September 8.
Able To See Through Touch
Image via FMT
In an interview with The Star, Punithamalar claimed that she had joined a spiritual program when she discovered that she has the ‘gift’ of being able to see with her eyes closed.
She said,
I can see anything that is in front of me blindfolded, just like seeing with my eyes open – this is a gift I discovered when I attended a four-month yoga and brain memory programme in December last year.
Punithamalar Rajashekar, Guinness World Record Holder
Rajashekar, Punithamalar’s father, said that he blindfolded Punithamalar. It shocked him that she was able to not only figure out the color of the ribbon but also “read” the words on the ribbon.
Rajashekar also added that his daughter could ride a bicycle blindfolded without crashing with anyone or anything.
About Punithamalar
Image via Guinness World Records
Punithamalar’s chess obsession extends beyond assembling the chess set at record-breaking speed. She is also an accomplished chess player, having begun playing at the age of five.
Other than that, Punithamalar is the top chess player at her school, which she represented in a district tournament. She also competes in national tournaments on a regular basis and is a FIDE (International Chess Federation) member.
The gifted young lady has won multiple honors, including Asia’s Outstanding Child Award of the Year 2022-2023. She has also performed in competitions such as Malaysia’s Kids Got Talent.
Believe it or not, some people do get granted with gifts. In Punithamalar’s case, her gift is put to good use. Her achievement marks another great thing for Malaysia to be proud of. Can’t wait to see her grow up and continue writing her names all around the world. Read about other Malaysian Guinness World Of Records too!
