10 Fascinating Facts About The Longest Fingernails Ever Recorded

When "Nailed It" Takes on a Whole New Meaning

Most people struggle to grow their nails past a few millimeters before they break, chip, or fall victim to an anxious bite. But for one man, trimming was never an option—literally. Meet Shridhar Chillal, the man who turned nail-growing into a lifelong commitment (and possibly the world's most inconvenient hobby).

His fingernails reached jaw-dropping lengths, breaking records, turning heads, and making everyday tasks a logistical nightmare. From nerve damage to nail-cutting ceremonies fit for a rock star, his story is as bizarre as it is fascinating. So, buckle up—because these 10 facts about the longest fingernails ever recorded are about to scratch your curiosity!

Here are 10 fascinating facts about the longest fingernails ever recorded on a pair of human hands:

1. Record Holder – The Guinness World Record for the longest fingernails on a single hand was held by Shridhar Chillal from India. He grew the nails on his left hand for over 66 years.

2. Extreme Length – By the time Shridhar Chillal cut his nails in 2018, their combined length measured 909.6 cm (29 ft 10.1 in)! His thumbnail alone measured 197.8 cm (6 ft 6 in).

3. Why Only One Hand? – Shridhar decided to grow out his nails after a teacher scolded him for breaking a nail in school. He took it as a challenge and never cut the nails on his left hand again.

4. Daily Challenges – Having such long nails made even basic tasks incredibly difficult. He struggled with sleeping, dressing, and even walking without accidentally breaking them.

5. Severe Hand Deformities – Due to the immense weight and length of his nails, Shridhar’s left hand became permanently deformed. His fingers were stiff and he had nerve damage.

6. Breaking the Record – Before finally cutting his nails in 2018, Shridhar Chillal held the record for the longest fingernails on a single hand ever recorded for decades.

7. Nail Cutting Ceremony – When he finally had his nails cut, it was a public event in New York City, and the nails were preserved for display at the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum.

8. No Use of Clippers – His nails were so thick and strong that regular nail clippers wouldn’t work. They had to be cut using a special tool, similar to an industrial saw.

9. Transportation Struggles – Due to their length, traveling was a challenge. He had to be extremely careful in crowded places and even had to sit in a special position when riding in a vehicle.

10. A Legacy in Oddities – Even after parting with his nails, Shridhar remained a legend in the world of unusual records. His story continues to inspire and fascinate people interested in human extremes.

Would you dare to grow your nails for even a year? 😆