A seven-year-old Indian boy created history on Friday by becoming the youngest to swim across the Palk Strait.

Ishank Singh from Jharkhand’s Ranchi successfully crossed the strait, which lies between India and Sri Lanka, in 9 hours and 50 minutes.

The waterway is challenging due to strong currents, sea waves, and unpredictable weather. However, Singh overcame these obstacles to swim the 29-kilometre stretch between Talaimannar in Sri Lanka and Arichalmunai in Dhanushkodi. He began his swim at 4 am and completed it at 1:50 pm.

As he set foot on the sands of Rameswaram, he was warmly welcomed by officials and supporters.

Singh’s achievement was praised by Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, who described the seven-year-old swimmer as an “extraordinary talent.”

“Ishank’s success is a remarkable example of discipline and unwavering dedication to his goal. He has brought pride not only to Jharkhand but to the entire country,” he wrote on X.

Previously, this record was held by Jay Jashwanth from Tamil Nadu, who completed the swim in 10 hours and 30 minutes at the age of 10 in 2019.

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Published By:

Aprameya Rao

Published On:

May 1, 2026 19:10 IST