A model and body positivity campaigner has been awarded a Guinness World Record for her six-inch long facial hair, which makes her the youngest woman in the world to have a full beard. Harnaam Kaur from Slough, Berkshire, said it was humbling to be included in the list.
The 24-year-old suffers from polycystic ovary syndrome which causes excessive hair growth on her face and in March this year Kaur became the first female with a beard to walk the runway at London Fashion Week.
Kaur says she was bullied throughout her childhood because of her condition and even waxed up to three times a week to try and combat her hair growth. Kaur has said in the past that she had received online death threats but has now modelled for Urban Bridesmaid Photography wearing her traditional Sikh turban, a navy dress and black heels.
In an Instagram post after she was announced as a record holder she said being valued as a bearded lady is amazing.
She said: I have been wanting to publish this news for absolutely ages, but I had to keep things under wrap until the book launched. I am super proud to hold this record, the inner child in me is so pleased. I grew up reading this book, I even tried breaking some of my own records wanting to be in it.
I hope those who read or see my record can take away positivity, inspiration and realise that no matter who you are or what you look like, you are officially amazing!
Kaur has stated that since she became a Sikh at the age of 16 her faith has helped her to embrace her facial hair as it is a major part of her religion. In Sikhism, Kesh or sometimes Kes, is a custom that allows ones hair to grow naturally as a symbol of respect and perfection as Gods creation.
Other record breakers announced include the longest pet cat and a high-jumping llama. The record for longest domestic cat currently alive goes to a 3ft 10.59in (1.183m) Ludo, a Maine Coon, from Wakefield, West Yorkshire.
Caspa, a nine-year-old high-jumping llama who lives on a farm in Porthmadog, North Wales, won a Guinness World Record after leaping a bar 3ft 8.5in (1.13m) high.
