KATHMANDU: Nepali-American parkour and gymnastics athlete Dinesh Sunar has made history once again, winning the 3iii International Indian Icon (IGT) Season 9 title in Chicago while also receiving the Judges’ Choice Award, an honour rarely given to the same performer in a single season.

Sunar, representing the Sunshine Taekwondo Academy team, delivered a standout performance in the Grand Finale, where he set his 22nd world record by completing the most blindfolded backflips with handcuffs in one minute. The extraordinary stunt drew praise for its level of difficulty and precision.

The finale was judged by a panel of well-known figures in South Asian entertainment, including Bollywood music director duo Jatin–Lalit, singer and actress Khushum Sadry, and composer Abbas Ali Mirza. The judges described Sunar’s achievement as “beyond extraordinary,” noting the extreme risk and technical challenge involved in his record-breaking act.

Season 9 of 3iii featured competitors from across the United States, including New York, New Jersey, Ohio and Chicago. Sunar’s control, athleticism and daring performance set him apart in a field of strong contenders.

Read More: From sand mountains to world records: The unstoppable rise of Dinesh Sunar

Originally from Nepal, Sunar began practising acrobatics without access to formal training or gym facilities, learning techniques on rooftops, trees and open fields. Influenced by action stars such as Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, Tony Jaa and Nepali actor Nikhil Upreti, he later moved to New York, where he now competes internationally and mentors young athletes.

With 22 world records to his name and fresh recognition from the international stage, Sunar continues to represent Nepal and the Nepali diaspora with pride. He says he hopes to share his journey more broadly in the future, including through a potential documentary film.

An official video of his record-setting performance is expected to be released soon.