About Saloo & Neena Choudhury
The pioneering couple from Kolkata who made history as the first and fastest circumnavigators of the globe by car, covering six continents.
World Record Holders
The Guinness Book of World Records has reconfirmed Saloo and Neena Choudhury of Kolkata as the first and fastest circumnavigators of the globe covering six continents. This motor rallyist couple beat the British Army's record with determination and vengeance.
"We participate in a rally to win, with a vengeance. Who remembers the runner up?" says the couple. Neena, who has accompanied Saloo on all his expeditions, adds, "It is a challenge for us. We love adventure and are ready to face the hardships. Glamour comes only as a reward after you win."
The Journey to Glory
The 'first and fastest' accolade did not come to them easy. For the first time, they covered 45,000 kilometres in 69 days, 19 hours and 5 minutes, in 1989. The Guinness Book of World Records certified Saloo and Neena Choudhury as the first and fastest circumnavigators of the globe, covering six continents.
However, in the 1991 edition of the book, they dropped the 'first' and mentioned them only as the fastest. The British Army had accomplished the same feat in 40 days in 1991, but with significant advantages - no customs hassles, passport or visa problems, delays at international airports, and the backup of the Royal Air Force.
Not ones to give up, the Choudhurys hit the road again. They were flagged from Delhi on November 7, 1991. This time, they covered 40,535 kilometres in a record time of 39 days, 20 hours, 15 minutes — 3 hours and 45 minutes less than the time taken by the army.
The Journey to Glory (Archival Highlights)
Captured on VGA-era equipment. Restored as a short highlight reel.
Watch full video →Transcript (short)
Transcript coming soon. This segment summarizes the first global circuit and the challenges along the way.
The Legal Victory
The Challenge
When Guinness would not concede them the 'first' title, the Choudhurys filed a case against Guinness Publishing Limited in the Calcutta High Court. They demanded recognition as the first and fastest circumnavigators and sought seven-and-a-half million pounds in damages.
The Victory
After five years of legal battle, on April 7, 1998, both parties signed an MOU. Guinness Publishing Limited consented to recognize the Choudhurys as the first and fastest man and woman, to be included in all future editions of the Guinness Book of World Records.
The Guinness World Records Road Challenge trophy is named the "Choudhury Trophy" in honor of their pioneering feat.
Quick Facts About Saloo & Neena Choudhury
When did they start their first journey?
They began their first circumnavigation in 1989, departing from Delhi, India, in their Hindustan Ambassador.
How long did the record-breaking journey take?
Their fastest circumnavigation in 1991 took 39 days, 20 hours, and 15 minutes, beating the British Army's record.
Why did they sue Guinness World Records?
They filed a case in Calcutta High Court when Guinness dropped their "first" title after the British Army completed a similar journey in 1991.
Are Saloo & Neena still recognized by Guinness?
Yes, after winning their legal battle in 1998, Guinness officially recognizes them as the first and fastest circumnavigators in all current and future editions.
"I did it for the city I was born in. It will feature on the world map of motor rallying."- Saloo Choudhury