The Global Bhatia caught up with 26-year old Forum Sampat from Pune, India, who encourages people to paint as a stress-relieving activity. Her personal experiences led her to take up painting, and eventually landed her a spot in the Guiness Book of World Records.

Tell us a bit about yourself, Foram.

I’ve done my SSC from St.Anne’s Pune. After which I pursued a Diploma in Travel and Tourism from MSIHMCT, Pune. I also hold a Double Bachelor in Hospitality and Tourism management (BA and BSc) from Switzerland. And now a world record at 26. Also, I’m from Pune, India.

What kind of subjects/interests have you always been drawn to?

I never really liked to study a lot. Geography was my favourite subject in school.

I’ve loved art since i was little. Art is my go-to when I am stressed, tired or just need a break. I escape into another world when I am painting. Apart from art, I also love travelling.

How did your tryst with art start?

It started as a fling, mostly when I needed to relax! I used to think art was only a hobby until recently when I realized it meant much more to me than just a hobby. It has helped me overcome a lot of my fears and remain calm. Ink and Drink is what made me fall in love with art all over again.

How did to come to think of attempting a Guinness record?

Painting needed to be introduced in a new way to people, a more approachable way. Not something that is just for kids but more for adults to de-stress, with Ink and Drink I did introduce it but I need a way to take it to the masses (and for people to make me seriously). Thus the idea of a  Guinness Record.

What did it take you to figure out a particular feat, and what was the idea?

The aim was to attempt the record for the largest painting party (Now, the Limca Record).

However, Guinness did not approve of the title. not this, nor the next three. If there had to be a Guiness Book Record it would have to be an existing title that we would beat since there was very little time at hand.

Tell us a little about the preparation that went into this feat.

It took months, to and fro discussions with GBR and Phoenix(Venue) and finally 2 days before the attempt we got the final approval from GBR stating our prerequisite were approved and we could attempt for the record.

Every step of GBR was challenging. From filing the application to waiting for the results. Being rejected 3 times was demotivating and need to gather courage within me to keep reapplying. Then there is always family by my side to pick me up each time I fall.

It took about 6 months to get the entire process pre approved from the authorities.

Even after that no one was confident that I would be able to get the GBR. One day before the attempt the head of Phoenix comes to me and tells me GBR doesn’t look possible with my arrangements. I still managed to stay calm and attempt the record just to prove I did not give up on myself.

The attempt started with a lot of hurdles and we were 1 hour behind schedule. 8 hours later we managed to finish the attempt but still were not sure if we will get the record. 2 months later we got an email saying – you are officially amazing!

Numbers on the big day?

30 people working from our team, 8 witnesses, 4638 participants, 8 hours.

Keeping the spirit alive through art – what are you currently doing?

Working of the same spirit – Taking art to the masses.

Apart from doing the regular painting event we hold a annual 3 day fest to give a platform to all performers and artist to showcase their talent.