India’s Queen of Origami: Shivali Johri Folds Her Way into 21 Guinness World Records!
In a world where artistic achievements often take years to gain recognition, Shivali Johri Srivastava has taken creativity to unprecedented heights. An alumna of GITAM University, Hyderabad, Shivali recently added two more Guinness World Records to her growing list, bringing her total to 21, the most by any individual in India. These latest accomplishments involve creating the world’s largest display of origami, a proof of her meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to the craft. Her achievements have brought global recognition not only to her but also to her alma mater, GITAM University, which takes immense pride in her extraordinary journey.From Paper Dolls to Citrus Fruits: A Legacy of CreativityShivali’s path to becoming India’s most decorated Guinness record holder is paved with dedication, patience, and artistry. Her earlier creations were nothing short of breathtaking, ranging from 1,251 handmade paper dolls to 7,011 intricately quilled flowers. She has also created 3,501 origami whales, 2,100 origami penguins, 6,132 origami citrus fruits, 6,500 bats, 5,500 cars, 3,400 dinosaurs, 3,400 peacocks, and 3,400 ribbon bows, among others. Each record represents months of meticulous planning, precise folding, and creative innovation. Shivali’s work goes beyond simple craft; it is a fusion of art, mathematics, and patience, as each piece must meet exact specifications to qualify for Guinness recognition. Her displays often include thousands of individual components arranged in precise patterns, transforming paper into lifelike creations.Beyond Guinness: A Global RecognitionIn addition to her 21 Guinness World Records, Shivali also holds 15 Assist World Records and 4 Unique World Records, demonstrating her versatility and global impact in paper arts. These achievements reflect not only her creativity but also her discipline, focus, and resilience—qualities that have inspired students, artists, and enthusiasts across India and beyond. Her work exemplifies how traditional arts like origami and quilling can gain international acclaim when combined with innovation and determination. Family and InspirationShivali’s journey is deeply rooted in family support and encouragement. Alongside her parents, particularly her mother, Kavita Johri Srivastava, Shivali has navigated the challenges of creating record-breaking art, balancing creativity with patience, perseverance, and rigorous effort. In interviews, she often credits her parents for nurturing her curiosity, providing moral and logistical support, and celebrating every small milestone. Her story resonates with students and young artists everywhere: success is often a blend of talent, hard work, and the support of loved ones.GITAM University: A Platform for ExcellenceGITAM University’s leadership has expressed immense pride in Shivali’s achievements. Prof. D.S. Rao, Pro Vice-Chancellor, along with DVVSR Varma, Resident Director; Ambika Philip, Director of Hospitality and Campus Life; and Dr. D. Mallikarjuna Reddy, faculty, staff, and students, extended heartfelt congratulations to Shivali. Her success underscores the role of educational institutions in nurturing talent, providing resources, and inspiring students to dream beyond conventional boundaries. GITAM University now proudly holds a place in global record books thanks to its alumna’s extraordinary accomplishments.The Discipline Behind the ArtBehind every record lie hours of painstaking work, often stretching into months. Shivali’s process involves designing, folding, assembling, and inspecting every single piece to ensure perfection. This discipline has taught her valuable lessons in time management, patience, precision, and creative problem-solving. For students and aspiring artists, her story is an important reminder that true mastery demands consistent effort, even when results may seem distant or difficult to measure. Shivali’s achievements reflect that perseverance and passion can turn even a humble sheet of paper into a world-record-breaking masterpiece. Shivali’s journey is more than a series of record-breaking feats; it is a story of passion, resilience, and artistic excellence. She has shown that age, background, or profession does not limit the heights one can achieve with dedication and creativity.
