Onlookers' curiosity and anticipation were aroused as dosa batter was poured into the tawa from buckets. At the appointed hour, all dosa masters poured the batter, spread it and then joined their own batch with those of their neighbours.

Given that there could be just one attempt at the record, and that a perfect dosa was required to fulfil the criteria, tensions ran high. Rolling, the toughest part, had to be done without damaging the dosa or tainting the colour.

Once the crispy brown dosa was ready, Ms. Smith had it measured and announced, amidst cheers, that the South Indian delicacy measured 38.2 feet long.

She then handed over a Guinness Book of World Records certificate to the representatives of the association.