This man let his nails grow for 66 years, and this is what happened | – Times of India

Human fascination with body modification has a long history, from ancient rituals to modern expressions of art and identity. Among these, the practice of growing nails to extraordinary lengths has been a subject of both awe and curiosity. This unique form of self-expression has been documented across various cultures and eras, often symbolizing status or spiritual beliefs.However, it is the story of one individual’s dedication to this practice that has captured the world’s attention.
In the quiet city of Pune, India, a young boy made a decision that would eventually etch his name in the annals of the Guinness World Records. Born in 1938, Shridhar Chillal started growing his nails in 1952 after an incident at school where he was reprimanded for accidentally breaking his teacher’s long nail. The teacher explained that it would take years to grow such a nail back, which inspired Chillal to see how long he could grow his own nails.
Over the years, Chillal’s nails became a significant part of his life and identity. By the time he finally decided to cut them in 2018, the cumulative length of his nails had reached 909.6 centimeters, with his thumbnail being the longest at 197.8 centimeters. His extraordinary commitment to growing his nails brought him fame, and he was featured in numerous media outlets and documentaries. His nails were so long that they affected his daily life, requiring him to be extremely careful with movements and tasks that others would find simple.

Chillal’s nails also had a considerable impact on his physical health. The weight of the nails caused nerve damage and the atrophy of the muscles in his hand. The nerve damage also caused loss to his hearing capabilities, leaving behind a permanent mark despite being removed now. In spite of the challenges however, he continued to grow his nails until the age of 82, when he finally had them removed. The procedure was complex due to the nails’ thickness and the care required to avoid further damage to his hand.
After the removal, Chillal’s nails were preserved and displayed at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! in Times Square, New York. This display allows people from all over the world to witness the result of Chillal’s unique dedication. The decision to cut his nails was not easy for Chillal, as they had become a part of his persona. However, he expressed relief at being free from the constant caution and limitations they imposed on him.
Chillal’s story is an incredible example of human curiosity and the extent people can go to attain a personal goal. It also teaches about the potential effects of such activities on one’s health and well-being. While Chillal’s record is impressive, it also emphasizes the significance of balance and long-term consequences of tackling any difficult activity. His experience exemplifies human endurance and the unique qualities that can characterize a person’s life. Shridhar Chillal’s adventure with his nails is an intriguing chapter in the history of human oddities and record-breaking feats.