Nilambur teacher earns Guinness record as 1,572 authors set new literary milestone

A literary event featuring 1,572 authors signing their own books simultaneously has entered the Guinness World Records, with Dr Umesh U, Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Commerce at Amal College of Advanced Studies, Nilambur, receiving the official recognition.

The record was achieved in Chennai on July 26, 2026, when 1,572 people took part in the simultaneous book-signing event. The feat surpassed the previous record of 1,502 authors, set at the Sharjah International Book Fair in 2019.

Umesh received the Guinness World Records certificate recently at the IIT Madras Alumni Industry Interaction Centre in Chennai, marking another significant achievement in his association with large-scale literary initiatives.

The event was organised in collaboration with ESN Publications and the London Organisation of Skills Development (LOSD). Eighteen fifth-semester B.Com students from Amal College also volunteered during the event.

For Umesh, the latest recognition adds to an unusual record of literary achievements. In 2023, he was associated with the creation of what was recorded as the world's thickest unpublished book, measuring 5.80 metres and containing 100,100 pages.

The latest Guinness recognition was followed by a felicitation by P V Abdul Wahab, MP. The management, principal, teachers, students and alumni of Amal College also honoured Umesh for the achievement.

The Guinness World Records listing names ESN Publications (India) and the London Organisation of Skills Development (UK) as the organisations behind the Chennai record.

Amal College's official website identifies Dr Umesh U as an Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Commerce, confirming his institutional role at the Nilambur-based college.