Indian athlete Vispy Kharadi has set a new Guinness World Record for the longest duration holding the Hercules pillars (male), achieving an impressive time of 2 minutes and 10.75 seconds. This remarkable feat took place on November 11, 2024, in Surat, Gujarat, India. Kharadi gripped two massive steel pillars, each weighing approximately 167 kg and 169 kg, measuring 123 inches in height and 20.5 inches in diameter. This surpassed the previous record of 1 minute and 30 seconds.
The Hercules hold is a test of immense upper body and core strength, requiring the athlete to prevent the pillars from falling outward by sheer grip and endurance. Kharadi’s accomplishment not only demonstrates physical prowess but also challenges the stereotype that Indians lack genetic strength compared to athletes from other nations. In his own words, he stated, “People say that Indians are weak because our genetics are not as strong as those from other countries. But I proved them wrong.”
Kharadi is a 13-time Guinness World Record holder and a multiple black belt martial artist. He has also trained Border Security Force (BSF) commandos in unarmed combat. His previous records include crushing 89 drink cans by hand in one minute and bending 24 iron bars with his head in one minute.
