Student Achiever: This tiny tot from Jalandhar created a national record and now holds a place in India Book of Records, 2023

Prodigies are not rare, feels Haridya Sharma, class UKG student at Apeejay School, Tanda Road. Every child has some hidden talent in himself/herself. But it takes a deep insight and a correct approach to tap that talent. “My school has definitely raised its bar a notch up in producing multi-talented students,” added the six year old.

The young achiever a few months back made it to the India Book of Record. The book is a prestigious curated account of all record setters from all parts of India across varied categories of talent. Those who feature in our renowned publication also receive international recognition by Washington Post, New York Times, BBC and The Telegraph amongst the few. And the latest to join this list is an Apeejayite. In a candid interview, she talks about her reaction to creating a national record among other things.

Tell us about your skill.

I performed a balancing act over a plate and took several rounds on it at my home that was recorded by my mother. The video was sent and was widely recognised. I was the youngest contender to compete. I completed 12 rounds over the plate in 50 seconds in the youngest category. Finally, it made the cut into the India Book of Records, 2023.

 Who inspired you to pursue this skill?

My mother inspired me to test my skill at balancing for long durations. I used to perform Rajasthani folk dance using a similar style of balancing. So when I started practicing again to check my stamina, I realised that I can balance and take rounds over a plate for a much longer time.

 What is your favourite food?

I love potato cutlets the most. I keep telling my mother to pack cutlets or dosa in my lunch daily. I could eat them the whole day if I could.

 How do you feel after creating a national record?

I am immensely happy and proud of myself. So from now I would like to participate in every activity and competition to explore my hidden talents. There is an upcoming rangoli activity at school and I am more than keen to learn and prepare world’s most creative and beautiful rangoli.

 Is the school providing exposure in extracurricular activities?

The school is highly involved in bringing out the creative aptitude in me. There are several extracurricular activities organised by the school that I love to participate in and compete with others. I feel I am able to handle my emotions well after learning a few activities and can handle losing and winning in a better way.

What are your plans ahead?

My parents have always supported me in all my pursuits. I love different sorts of physical activities, suryanamaskar and matki dance are the ones I am majorly fond of.