May 9, 2026 : INDIA — Just in time to celebrate Mother’s Day, a courageous team of five mothers is redefining the meaning of maternal strength. The all-mothers group successfully completed a grueling 59.4-kilometer relay swim across the Palk Strait. Taking turns swimming for one hour each, the “fearless five” began their journey from Talaimannar, Sri Lanka, at 2:00 AM and reached Arichal Munai, India, by 12:10 PM. They conquered the ocean in exactly 10 hours and 10 minutes.
Organized under the supervision of the Swimming Federation of India, this historic swim was more than just a test of endurance. The mothers took on this massive challenge to raise awareness against drug abuse, facing down strong ocean currents, unpredictable tides, and tough marine conditions to spread their message.
“As mothers, we carry life within us. As swimmers, we carry courage within us,” stated Queeni Victoriya, 45, who has previously conquered the English and Catalina Channels.
Voices of the “Fearless Five”
The team, composed of Queeni Victoriya Gandham, Radhika Mandava, Smita Rajan Katwe, Aarti Bhardwaj, and Mothukuri Kiran Mounika, shared their powerful reflections on the achievement:
- Queeni Victoriya Gandham (45), team leader and a Triple Crown swimmer who has conquered the English and Catalina Channels: “As mothers, we carry life within us. As swimmers, we carry courage within us. This journey across the Palk Strait is not just about reaching another shore — it is about showing the world that women, mothers, and warriors can rise above every wave, every struggle, and every fear. Through this swim, we want to inspire the younger generation to choose strength over addiction, discipline over destruction, and purpose over pressure. If five mothers can cross an ocean together, then our youth can overcome any challenge life places before them.”
- Aarti Bhardwaj (42): “We did it. From Sri Lanka to India and back, through currents, jellyfish, salt, and doubt. This was never just my swim. It was ours. Every stroke carried the strength of Team. The sea tests everything – my training, my mindset, my faith in the team beside you. There were moments the waves felt endless and the shore felt impossible. But when one of us got tired, another pulled harder. That’s the magic of a relay. That’s the power of moms who refuse to quit. From the pool to the Palk Strait, we’ve rewritten what’s possible. Training is done. Courage was packed. History is made.”
- Smita Rajan Katwe (52), who is featured in the Limca, India, and Asia Books of Records for a 12-hour non-stop swim: “Exhausted, emotional, and extremely proud. The Palk Strait changed me. From Sri Lanka to India, we didn’t just swim – we created history together. I’m grateful for my teammates – without their strength, support, and trust, this World Record wouldn’t be possible. Feeling blessed and motivated to do more.”
- Kiran Mounika Mothukuri (34), national swimmer and educator: “Feeling proud and emotional as a mother after completing the swim from Sri Lanka to Rameshwaram. Every wave challenged my strength and determination, making this achievement even more special. Grateful for the endless support and love from family, friends, and well-wishers. A truly unforgettable moment.”
- Radhika Mandava (48), a national and international medalist holding the distinction of being the first female open-water swimming coach from the Telugu states: “Every wave keeps reminding us of the ups and downs in our lives… and tells us to keep moving forward. It feels truly amazing and incredible to achieve this world record level by five mothers connecting two countries together. Feeling very proud and happy. A big thank you to our team manager Victoria and all our team members for giving us this wonderful opportunity. Thank you so much for your endless support and love. We hope our mothers’ journey, which started with the concept of ‘Say No to Drugs,’ will become an inspiration to many people. Thank you.”
A New Mission for Mothers
This Mother’s Day, the team is turning their athletic victory into a lasting movement. Building on the momentum of their historic swim, the participants have officially urged for the formation of a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) in the form of an Association.
The proposed Association aims to create a dedicated, formal platform where women—especially mothers—can find the mentorship, resources, and community backing needed to pursue bold ambitions. Far too often, women put their personal dreams on hold to fulfill family responsibilities. This NGO will seek to change that narrative, providing a support system that encourages mothers to reclaim their physical and mental strength, set audacious goals, and lead by example.
Furthermore, the Association will serve as a powerful vehicle to amplify their core societal message: “Say No to Drugs.” The team believes that when mothers unite, they possess an unparalleled influence over their children and communities. By organizing future open-water swims, marathons, community challenges, and workshops, the NGO will channel the natural resilience of mothers into a united front against substance abuse.
Through this Association, they hope to build a nationwide network where mothers can train together, support one another’s well-being, and actively show the youth that true power lies in a healthy, disciplined, and purpose-driven lifestyle. It will ensure that this historic swim is not just a one-time event, but the spark for a continuous crusade for family wellness and female empowerment.
The team also expressed their deep gratitude to their supporters, giving special thanks to Unifly Logistics for sponsoring the event and providing the financial support that made this mission possible.
This extraordinary accomplishment by five mothers stands as a profound Mother’s Day reminder of human endurance, the power of teamwork, and the unstoppable resolve of mothers striving to build a better, safer world.
About the Sponsor: Unifly Logistics – Mumbai
At Unifly Logistics, we bring over 25 years of experience in delivering reliable and efficient logistics solutions. Located in the heart of Mumbai, we specialize in transporting goods safely and on time across the globe. Our mission is to connect businesses with seamless supply chain services, powered by technology, experience, and dedication. For more information, visit https://uniflylogistics.com/
