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'What an inspiration’: Bengaluru couple stuns internet after swimming 32 km from Sri Lanka to India

Bengaluru couple swam 32 km from Sri Lanka to India in nearly 11 hours

By Srijoni Dutta

May 08, 2026 08:02 IST

A Bengaluru couple has gone viral online after completing a 32-km open-water swim from Sri Lanka to India through the historic Ram Setu route. Danish Abdi and Vrushali Prasade swam from Talaimannar in Sri Lanka to Dhanushkodi in Tamil Nadu and completed the journey in 10 hours and 45 minutes.

The swim took place under difficult sea conditions, including strong currents, waves and physical exhaustion. Support crews, paramedics and coast guard teams accompanied the couple during the crossing to ensure safety throughout the long-distance challenge.

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How did the Bengaluru couple complete the swim

Danish Abdi and Vrushali Prasade began their swim from Talaimannar in Sri Lanka and crossed the Ram Setu route before reaching Dhanushkodi in India. The couple spent 10 hours and 45 minutes in the water while dealing with changing sea conditions and fatigue during the journey.

After completing the swim, the duo shared their experience on Instagram and wrote, “We did it! Sri Lanka to India. 10 hrs 45 mins. Tough day out in the water. More details to follow after a 12-hour no-alarm sleep.”

Why is the feat considered difficult

Open-water swimming across international waters is considered very challenging because sea currents and weather conditions can change quickly. Unlike swimming in controlled sports environments, swimmers have to maintain direction, rhythm and stamina for several hours in open sea conditions.

The Ram Setu route is also known for strong waves and shifting currents, making the crossing physically demanding for swimmers attempting such long-distance challenges.

How did social media react

The couple’s achievement quickly gained attention online after their Instagram post went viral. Many users praised the duo in the comments section, calling the swim “incredible” and “unbelievable”.

One user commented, “What an inspiration,” while another wrote, “Huge congratulations to both of you.” Several others responded with applause, fire and heart emojis celebrating the achievement.

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The swim was organised as part of an initiative supported by Manipal Hospitals. It was also presented as a symbolic effort celebrating the historical and cultural connections between India and Sri Lanka.

The achievement has gained widespread attention online for the endurance and physical effort involved in completing the long-distance open-water crossing across the historic Ram Setu route.

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