Bal Joshi Makes History By Running Around the World in Daura Suruwal

Nepali-origin American runner Bal Joshi has made global headlines by achieving the a Guinness World Record while proudly wearing Nepal’s traditional attire, the Daura Suruwal. In a feat that blends athletic endurance with cultural pride, Joshi completed the iconic World Marathon Challenge, running seven full marathons across seven continents in seven consecutive days.

What makes this achievement even more remarkable is that Joshi completed the entire “777 Marathon” dressed in traditional Nepali clothing, becoming the first athlete in the world to do so. His record was officially recognized during the closing ceremony of the World Marathon Challenge in Miami, where Guinness World Records representative Michael Empric presented him with the certification.

The journey began at the coldest and most unforgiving continent, Antarctica before moving through Cape Town (Africa), Perth (Australia), Dubai (Asia), Madrid (Europe), Brazil (South America), and finally concluding in Miami, United States, on the seventh day. Each marathon tested not only physical stamina but also mental resilience, especially while running in traditional attire across vastly different climates and terrains.

Organized since 2015, the World Marathon Challenge is considered one of the most demanding endurance events in the world. This year’s edition featured 56 runners from 32 countries, placing Joshi among an elite group of global athletes but his choice to represent Nepal set him apart on an international stage.

Speaking after his historic run, Joshi shared that the decision to wear Daura Suruwal was deeply personal.

“I took this challenging marathon as an opportunity to introduce my homeland Nepal, Nepali heritage, and culture,” he said. “I am happy that the effort made to respect the land and heritage of my birth has been successful.”

Beyond the medals and records, Bal Joshi’s achievement is a powerful reminder that sports can be more than competition, it can be a platform for identity, storytelling, and cultural pride. By carrying Nepal across continents, one marathon at a time, he turned a global endurance race into a moving tribute to his roots.

Follow for more stories!