Wednesday, Mar 19, 2025 10:15 [IST]
Last Update: Tuesday, Mar 18, 2025 17:10 [IST]
DARJEELING, :The Himalayan
Mountaineering Institute (HMI) of Darjeeling flagged off “Mission Kanchenjunga
to Everest” expedition from its premises today.
The
expedition, led by HMI principal Col. Rajneesh Joshi, is dedicated to honouring
late mountaineer Kushang Dorjee Sherpa and celebrating the invaluable
contributions of Sherpa community to the world of mountaineering.
“Mission
Kanchenjunga to Everest is more than a test of endurance. It is a journey of
remembrance, respect and inspiration. As the team embarks on this formidable
challenge, they carry with them the spirit of past legends while inspiring
future generations to dream big and conquer new heights,” said Joshi,
emphasizing that the mission is not just an expedition but a movement to
preserve and honour Kushang Sherpa’s legacy.
To
formally commence the mission, Kushang’s wife handed over a ceremonial ice-axe
to Joshi.
Pasang
Sherpa, son of the late Kushang Sherpa, is also part of the expedition.
“It
is a privilege for me to be part of this expedition. Through this journey, I
want to honour my father’s memory. I am proud to be the son of such a legendary
figure,” said Pasang.
Along
with Pasang, HMI instructor Thuptsang Chewang is also participating in the
expedition.
Born
on February 15, 1965, Kushang Sherpa made history as the first man to summit
Mount Everest from three sides, a feat unmatched at the time.
He
first summited Everest on May 10, 1993 via the southeast ridge route. He
reached the summit again on May 17, 1996 from the northeast ridge route. On May
28, 1998, he made his third ascent from the southeast ridge. He achieved his
fourth summit from the east face on May 28, 1999.
In
recognition of his extraordinary achievements, the Government of India honoured
Kushang with the prestigious Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award in 2003.
He also served as an instructor at HMI before passing away on December 7, 2024
at his home in Darjeeling.
Today’s
ceremony was attended by Everester Jamling Tenzing Norgay (son of the legendary
Tenzing Norgay), and senior members of the Sherpa community.
