On Wednesday, March 26, 2025, the popular television program Lo Show dei Record aired on Canale 5, featuring two extraordinary women: Jyoti Amge from India and Rumeysa Gelgi from Turkey. This special episode, hosted by Gerry Scotti, showcased not only their unique physical attributes but also their inspiring stories.
Jyoti Amge, recognized as the world's shortest woman, stands at just 62.8 centimeters, while Rumeysa Gelgi, the world's tallest woman, measures an impressive 215.16 centimeters. Both women have made headlines globally, not just for their records but for the challenges they have overcome in their lives.
Rumeysa Gelgi has been a part of the Guinness World Records for a decade, first earning her title in 2014 when she was just 17 years old, becoming the tallest living teenager. Her height is attributed to Weaver syndrome, a rare genetic condition that causes accelerated growth and skeletal abnormalities. Born on January 1, 1997, in Safranbolu, Turkey, Rumeysa’s journey has been marked by both physical challenges and remarkable achievements.
From an early age, Rumeysa faced difficulties due to her condition. By the age of six, she was already 1.76 meters tall, and her growth continued to set her apart from her peers. Despite these challenges, she has successfully navigated her life with the support of her family, who played a crucial role in helping her overcome the social and physical obstacles associated with her unique stature.
In addition to her record-breaking height, Rumeysa has also earned accolades for having the largest hands (24.93 cm), longest fingers (11.2 cm), and longest back (59.9 cm) among women. Her achievements have allowed her to participate in various international events, where she raises awareness about rare syndromes and advocates for acceptance of differences.
During the episode of Lo Show dei Record, viewers were treated to a thrilling performance by the Bir Khalsa group, who executed a daring act. A blindfolded contestant attempted to cut apples with a chainsaw while they were held in the mouths of two teammates, showcasing an exhilarating blend of courage and precision that left the audience in awe.
Rumeysa Gelgi's presence on the show not only highlighted her incredible height but also her resilience. In an interview with Fanpage, she expressed her relationship with her height, stating, "My excessive growth has been from birth. I have always been a big child, more than those of my age. I have always had a large female body for as long as I can remember. I don't know myself in any other way." This sentiment reflects her acceptance of her uniqueness and serves as an empowering message for those who feel different.
Despite the challenges posed by her condition, Rumeysa has built a fulfilling life. She works as a web developer, allowing her to adapt her professional commitments to her physical needs. Additionally, she has a significant presence on social media, particularly Instagram, where she shares her daily experiences and promotes awareness of Weaver syndrome. With nearly 160,000 followers, her posts often celebrate her records and provide insights into living with a rare condition.
Rumeysa's journey is not just about her physical attributes; it is also about her advocacy work. She uses her platform to raise awareness about rare syndromes and encourage self-acceptance. In her interactions with fans and followers, she emphasizes that differences can be a source of strength, and her story inspires many to embrace their uniqueness.
Furthermore, Rumeysa's life has included significant milestones, such as meeting Jyoti Amge during the Guinness 2024 World Record Day celebrations in London. This encounter between the world’s tallest and shortest women symbolizes the celebration of diversity and the shared experiences of those who live with extraordinary conditions.
In 2022, Turkish Airlines adapted six seats for Rumeysa on a stretcher, accommodating her needs during travel. This adaptation highlights the importance of accessibility and the efforts made by companies to support individuals with unique requirements. In January 2025, a video was released by Guinness World Records showing Rumeysa's experiences traveling on a stretcher, providing a glimpse into her life as she navigates the world around her.
Rumeysa Gelgi's story is a powerful reminder of resilience, acceptance, and the beauty of diversity. Her achievements in the Guinness World Records are not merely about breaking records; they are about inspiring others to embrace their differences and live authentically. As she continues to share her journey, she encourages countless individuals to celebrate their uniqueness and pursue their dreams, regardless of the challenges they may face.
As the episode of Lo Show dei Record concluded, viewers were left not only with a sense of awe regarding the incredible feats of these two women but also with a deeper understanding of the importance of acceptance and celebration of diversity in all its forms. Rumeysa Gelgi and Jyoti Amge exemplify how extraordinary lives can inspire change and foster a greater appreciation for the uniqueness of every individual.
