World's shortest man stands 21.5 inches

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KATHMANDU, Nepal, Feb. 26 (UPI) -- A weaver from Nepal who stands 21.5 inches tall and weighs 32 pounds was named the world's shortest man Sunday by Guinness World Records.

Chandra Bahadur Dangi was measured three times during a 24-hour period at a medical facility in Kathmandu, overseen by Guinness World Records Editor-in-Chief Craig Glenday, the publisher said in a statement.

Chandra told officials he is 72 years old and has never been to a doctor. He lives in a remote mountain village of Rhimkholi, about 250 miles west of Kathmandu. He works weaving traditional Nepalese clothing with his five brothers, all of whom are average height, the announcement said.

Glenday said the new celebrity status should help Chandra medically and financially.

"Mr. Chandra has probably encountered difficulties with his size but hopefully this new title will open up a whole world of opportunities," Glenday said.

The shortest man record was held since last June by 18-year-old Junrey Balawing of the Philippines, who stands 23.5 inches, the release said.