A 15-year-old, Sidakdeep Singh Chahal from Uttar Pradesh, India, has achieved global recognition by setting a new world record for the longest hair on a male teenager. Sidak, as he is affectionately known, has grown his hair to a length of 146 cm (4 ft 9.5 in), capturing worldwide popularity with his dedication to a centuries-old Sikh tradition.
For Sidak, maintaining his lustrous locks is a labor of love. He meticulously washes, dries, and brushes his hair twice a week, dedicating an entire hour each time to the task. Speaking about this to Guinness World Records, Sidak said, "It would take an entire day if it wasn't for the help of my mother." His family's support has been instrumental in his journey.
The reason behind Sidak's extraordinary hair growth is deeply rooted in his Sikh faith. Sikhs believe in never cutting their hair, considering it a divine gift from God. As part of this tradition, Sidak typically ties his hair in a bun and covers it with a turban, in keeping with Sikh customs.
Photo: Guinness World Records
Although many of Sidak's family and friends share his Sikh faith, none of them boast hair as long as his. Sidak recalled, "Many of my relatives were shocked to see how long it was," adding that some initially thought he was joking when he claimed to have set a world record. "They thought I was pulling their leg, and it took a bit of proof to convince them," he chuckled.
Reflecting on his childhood, Sidak revealed that he faced occasional teasing from friends when he was outside, drying his hair. "I did not like that my hair was made fun of," he admitted. Initially contemplating cutting it when he grew older, Sidak has since embraced his unique identity. "I plan to keep my hair uncut until the day I die," he declared proudly.
Beyond his haircare routine, Sidak leads a well-rounded life. He devotes time to studying, working out, reading, and indulging in video games. With a hint of humor, he quipped, "Believe it or not, but my entire personality is not based around my hair."
Sidak's achievement has been recognized by the Guinness World Records 2024 book, where he shares space with individuals who have accomplished extraordinary feats. "I was over the moon when I learned that I would be featured," Sidak exclaimed, a testament to his genuine excitement at this global recognition.
While Sidak's hair is undeniably impressive, it's worth noting that the record for the longest hair on a teenager ever belongs to another Indian, Nilanshi Patel, whose hair reached a staggering 200 cm (6 ft 6 in). She, however, decided to cut her hair in 2021, donating it to a museum.