A woman in China achieved viral fame and a cash prize of 10,000 yuan (approximately ₹1.16 lakh) by successfully avoiding her mobile phone for eight hours during an unconventional competition held in Chongqing.
The Competition: A Test of Digital Detox The event, organized on November 29 at a Chongqing shopping center, challenged participants to spend eight hours without using mobile phones or electronic gadgets like iPads and laptops. Ten contestants were shortlisted from over 100 applicants for the challenge, which required them to lie on a bed while staying calm and free of anxiety.
Contestants surrendered their devices at the start, receiving basic phones with only calling capabilities for emergencies. Strict rules allowed minimal movement, such as five-minute breaks for restroom visits. Wrist straps monitored anxiety levels and prevented deep sleep, as staying composed was key to winning.
Victory Through Resilience A woman identified only as Ms. Dong emerged victorious after scoring 88.99 out of 100, demonstrating minimal anxiety and staying on the bed the longest. Dong, a finance professional, attributed her success to her already minimal phone usage and relaxed lifestyle, which resonated with many on Chinese social media. She earned the nickname "Pyjama Sister" for her choice of attire during the event.
A Viral Sensation Held in a mattress store, the competition aimed to promote mental resilience and a break from digital dependency. While the sponsoring company's identity remains unknown, the event sparked widespread discussions about technology addiction and lifestyle balance across China.
Dong’s win not only earned her a cash prize but also highlighted the growing interest in digital detox practices in the modern era.