In a spectacular display of dexterity, discipline, and determination, 16-year-old Arnav Daga from Kolkata has etched his name in the Guinness World Records by achieving four world records with a deck of cards—all in a single day. The feat, accomplished on May 19, 2025, has not only stunned the global cardistry and speed-stacking communities but also positioned India prominently on the international stage of unconventional sports and skill-based records.
Daga, a student and a self-taught card manipulator, began his record-breaking spree at 10 a.m. and concluded before sunset, setting a new precedent for consecutive achievements in a single domain within 24 hours. His records include the most cards flicked into a target in one minute, fastest time to stack a deck of cards, most cards dealt while blindfolded in one minute, and most one-handed shuffles in 30 seconds.
Each record attempt was conducted under the supervision of certified adjudicators from Guinness World Records, with live witnesses and a high-definition recording setup to ensure compliance and transparency. According to the officials, Daga’s performance was not only technically flawless but also showed extraordinary consistency and hand-eye coordination.
Speaking after the event, Daga said, “I have been training for over two years. This was not just about breaking records but pushing the limits of what I thought was possible with practice and patience. I hope this inspires other youngsters to pursue their passions—even if they seem niche or unconventional.”
The achievement has drawn widespread attention on social media, with the hashtag #ArnavDaga trending nationally. Celebrities, educators, and sports personalities alike have congratulated the young prodigy. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, in a public statement, praised Daga’s dedication and called him “an inspiration for Bengal’s youth.”
Cardistry—a performance art involving the creative manipulation of playing cards—has gained popularity over the last decade, particularly among Gen Z audiences on platforms like YouTube and TikTok. However, few practitioners manage to translate their flair into record-setting precision. Daga’s accomplishment is notable not just for its uniqueness, but also for the discipline and scientific approach he employed.
Local coaching academies have reported a spike in inquiries about speed card manipulation and dexterity training ever since news of Daga’s achievement went public. His records are expected to be published in the next edition of the Guinness World Records annual compendium, further solidifying his place in history.
As the applause continues and his feat garners international media attention, Arnav Daga remains humble. “This is just the beginning,” he said. “I want to explore more Guinness records and possibly innovate my own techniques that can redefine the benchmarks in card manipulation.”
Conclusion:
Arnav Daga’s record-breaking day stands as a powerful testament to youthful ambition, skill development, and the power of setting high goals. In an age where digital distractions are plenty, Daga’s focus on a physical, skill-based art form has reignited interest in offline mastery—and may very well inspire a new generation of Indian record-setters.
