Young Musician Sets World Record by Playing Flute While Swimming Backstroke in Mangaluru
In a remarkable display of skill and endurance, 30-year-old musician Ruben Jason Machado has made it to the record books by performing an extraordinary feat in Mangaluru. On October 29, 2025, Machado swam over 700 metres backstroke in the swimming pool of St. Aloysius (Deemed-to-be-University), all while continuously playing the flute. His unique achievement earned him a provisional certificate from the Golden Book of World Records .
The event took place at around 10 a.m., when Machado, a former music teacher at the same university, entered the water equipped with fins. Over a span of 45 minutes, he managed to complete more than five laps of the 50x25 metre pool. As he swam, he played a series of melodies—starting with Christmas carols and later transitioning to Hindustani classical compositions—demonstrating both musical mastery and physical control.
Sharing his experience with reporters, Machado said, “This is the first time I swam more than 700 meters.” He also revealed that he had taken up swimming three years ago and had been practising the challenging combination of backstroke and flute playing for the past three months. His commitment to perfecting this rare coordination has now placed him in the international spotlight.
The Asia Head of the Golden Book of World Records, V. Manish, who was present during the attempt, confirmed the feat and handed Machado a provisional certificate. He added that the exact distance covered during the performance would be verified and announced soon.
Dr. Praveen Martis, Vice-Chancellor of St. Aloysius (Deemed-to-be-University), congratulated Machado, calling his accomplishment an inspiration for both students and artists. “He has combined art and athleticism in a way few have ever imagined,” he remarked.
Machado’s achievement not only highlights the power of human determination but also underscores the creative potential that lies in combining passion with discipline. His fusion of music and sport stands as a symbol of innovation, perseverance, and artistic excellence, inspiring countless others to pursue their dreams in unconventional ways.
The event took place at around 10 a.m., when Machado, a former music teacher at the same university, entered the water equipped with fins. Over a span of 45 minutes, he managed to complete more than five laps of the 50x25 metre pool. As he swam, he played a series of melodies—starting with Christmas carols and later transitioning to Hindustani classical compositions—demonstrating both musical mastery and physical control.
Sharing his experience with reporters, Machado said, “This is the first time I swam more than 700 meters.” He also revealed that he had taken up swimming three years ago and had been practising the challenging combination of backstroke and flute playing for the past three months. His commitment to perfecting this rare coordination has now placed him in the international spotlight.
The Asia Head of the Golden Book of World Records, V. Manish, who was present during the attempt, confirmed the feat and handed Machado a provisional certificate. He added that the exact distance covered during the performance would be verified and announced soon.
Dr. Praveen Martis, Vice-Chancellor of St. Aloysius (Deemed-to-be-University), congratulated Machado, calling his accomplishment an inspiration for both students and artists. “He has combined art and athleticism in a way few have ever imagined,” he remarked.
Machado’s achievement not only highlights the power of human determination but also underscores the creative potential that lies in combining passion with discipline. His fusion of music and sport stands as a symbol of innovation, perseverance, and artistic excellence, inspiring countless others to pursue their dreams in unconventional ways.
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