In celebration of the 20th annual Guinness World Records Day, two remarkable women, Rumeysa Gelgi and Jyoti Amge, came together for a memorable afternoon tea at London’s iconic Savoy Hotel. The meeting marked a special moment in the history of Guinness World Records, showcasing the diversity and unique stories of its record holders.
Rumeysa Gelgi, a 27-year-old Turkish web developer and the world’s tallest woman, stands at an impressive 215.16cm (7ft 1in). Her counterpart, Jyoti Amge, a 30-year-old Indian actress known for her role as Ma Petite in American Horror Story, holds the title of the world’s shortest woman at just 62.8cm (2ft 1in).
Despite their striking height difference, the two women found common ground, sharing a love for self-care, makeup, and nail art. Reflecting on their meeting, Ms. Gelgi shared, “It was so amazing meeting Jyoti for the first time. It was difficult for us to make eye contact at times due to our height difference, but it was great. We do have things in common; we both love makeup, self-care, and doing our nails.”
Ms. Amge expressed similar sentiments, saying, “I’m used to looking up and seeing people taller than me, but I was so happy to look up today and see the world’s tallest woman. I’m delighted that I’ve met Rumeysa; she is so good-natured, and I felt very comfortable talking to her.”
Both women have been recognized as Guinness World Record icons in the 70th-anniversary edition of the record book. Their achievements highlight the organization’s mission to celebrate diversity and individuality.
Rumeysa Gelgi, who earned her title in 2021, lives with a rare condition called Weaver syndrome, which causes accelerated growth and skeletal deformities. Her diagnosis was the first in Turkey and only the 27th case worldwide. Jyoti Amge, who has held her record since 2011, was born with achondroplasia, a form of dwarfism that affects bone growth.
Guinness World Records editor-in-chief Craig Glenday lauded the meeting, saying, “Guinness World Records is all about celebrating differences, and by bringing together these two amazing, iconic women, they can share their perspectives on life with each other and also with us. The Guinness World Records icons are those record holders who truly embody the spirit of GWR.”
The heartfelt meeting between these two extraordinary women serves as a reminder of the beauty in diversity and the power of shared experiences. Their story not only inspires but also exemplifies the spirit of Guinness World Records—connecting people through their remarkable achievements.
