Oluwatosin Solaru, a Nigerian dancer, who recently completed a record-breaking attempt for the Guinness World Record (GWR) for the longest dance marathon by an individual, has revealed that she drew inspiration from legendary choreographer Kafayat Shafau, popularly known as Kaffy.
Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ibadan on Wednesday, Solaru recalled how Kaffy’s historic feat in 2006 sparked her desire to pursue a similar path.
“When Kaffy and her team broke the record, I thought it was something only major organizations like Silverbird could organise. But after Hilda Baci’s cooking marathon last year, I realized I could apply for it myself,” Solaru said.
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She revealed that a friend who had attempted a “wash-a-thon” helped her understand the process of applying to the Guinness World Records, motivating her to leap.
Addressing societal attitudes, Solaru lamented that talent is often undervalued in Nigeria.
“Nigerians rarely understand or support talent. I needed to prove that dance isn’t just a hobby, it’s a powerful form of expression and a profession,” she stated.
Solaru began her dance marathon on June 22 and concluded on June 29 at Nile Cinema, Royal Roots Mall in Ikota, Lagos. She applied specifically for the category of Longest Dance Marathon by an Individual.
Clarifying a common misconception, she explained: “Not all dance-related Guinness World Records fall under the same title. I applied for the individual dance marathon category.”
Despite minimal support at the outset, Solaru said public interest picked up by the second day of her attempt, both in person and online.
A multi-talented creative, Solaru describes herself as an actor, writer, spoken word artist, and entrepreneur. She disclosed that the entire project cost an estimated ₦3.5 million.
The 30-year-old also hinted at plans to collaborate with other dancers and empower students through workshops.
“I’m starting with my alma mater. My goal is to hold workshops and seminars in at least 30 schools across Ogun State and 20 in Lagos,” she shared.
Solaru expressed gratitude to her father, who supported her from the outset, while noting that her mother was initially hesitant.
According to NAN, the current record for the longest dance marathon by an individual stands at 127 hours, set in 2023 by India’s Srushti Jagtap, who danced for five consecutive days at Dayanand College in Latur, Maharashtra.
Solaru surpassed that time with an impressive 157-hour dance session. Her record is now pending official ratification by the Guinness World Records.
