SBI Life Insurance has successfully set a Guinness World Record in a pioneering effort to normalize discussions about women’s health and stress the importance of early breast cancer detection. The company achieved the record for the “Largest mosaic made of hot water bags,” utilizing a staggering 1,191 ‘Hug of Life’ hot water bags to form a giant mosaic spelling out the powerful message: “Take A Breast Self-Exam with Thanks-A-Dot.”
The initiative is designed to tackle the critical issue of breast cancer in India, which is the most common cancer among Indian women. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) notes that over 60% of cases are diagnosed at advanced stages—a problem often linked to cultural hesitation and the prioritization of family health over personal care. Early detection, however, offers up to a 90% cure rate.
The centerpiece of the record-breaking mosaic, the ‘Hug of Life’ hot water bag, is itself an innovation. Launched in 2023 under SBI Life’s ongoing ‘Thanks-A-Dot’ initiative, it is the world’s first hot water bag designed with three-dimensional lumps to serve as a tactile learning aid for practicing breast self-examination (BSE) safely and confidently.
The record-setting formation was witnessed by esteemed guests including Amit Jhingran, MD & CEO, SBI Life Insurance; Ravindra Sharma, Chief of Brand, Corp Comm & CSR, SBI Life; and Indian actress and breast cancer survivor, Mahima Chaudhry.
“We are creating a movement that turns a personal act of care into a shared conversation at home and across communities,” said Ravindra Sharma, reflecting on the company’s philosophy, “Apne Liye, Apno Ke Liye.” “Achieving the Guinness World Records is more than a milestone; it is an effort aimed at encouraging women to prioritize self-care and make breast self-examination a regular habit.”
Actress and breast cancer survivor Mahima Chaudhry praised the effort, stating, “Having battled breast cancer myself, I know how critical early detection is, and regular breast self-exams make all the difference. The Guinness World Records by SBI Life’s ‘Thanks-A-Dot’ opens doors for those conversations, inspiring women to learn, act, and empower themselves.”
By transforming an everyday item into a symbol of awareness, SBI Life aims to break down social barriers and make breast health “a living room conversation in every household,” reinforcing its commitment to its customers’ overall well-being alongside financial security.
