Chinese woman wins ₹1.16 lakh for staying without phone for 8 hours
Chongqing: A woman from southwestern China has made headlines after winning a prize of 10,000 yuan (approximately ₹1,16,000) in a unique competition that tested participants' ability to disconnect from their mobile phones for eight hours while staying calm and anxiety-free.
The competition, held in Chongqing, aimed to address growing concerns about mobile phone addiction and its effects on mental well-being. Participants were required to completely abstain from using their phones for a full eight hours while also remaining calm and composed during the challenge. The challenge was designed to test both physical and mental endurance, as many people are increasingly dependent on their phones for various aspects of daily life, from socializing to work.
The woman, identified as Li Hua, successfully completed the challenge and was awarded the grand prize. Despite the difficulty of the task, she remained calm throughout the event, even as her peers struggled with the temptation to check their phones. Li shared that the experience was both challenging and enlightening, helping her realize how deeply ingrained mobile phone usage had become in her daily routine.
The competition, which attracted widespread attention, has sparked a broader conversation about the need to balance screen time and mental health. Organizers emphasized the importance of disconnecting from technology periodically to maintain a healthy lifestyle and reduce stress. Li’s victory has inspired many to consider taking breaks from their devices, and the competition's success has led to discussions about organizing similar events in the future.