Arunima Sinha: Scaling New Heights

Journey of Arunima Sinha — **_{Images: Making Peace With Life (L); Hindustan Times (R)}**

Arunima Sinha: Conquering Everest and Beyond

Arunima Sinha’s journey stands as a testament to human resilience and potential. Just two years after losing a leg in a tragic rail accident, she defied all odds by summiting Mount Everest in 2013, becoming the world’s first female amputee to achieve this feat. But that was just the beginning for Arunima Sinha. Under the guidance of Bachendri Pal, the first Indian woman to conquer Everest, she went on to conquer the tallest peaks on five continents, blazing a trail as one of the pioneering female amputee mountaineers.

Who is Arunima Sinha?

Born on July 20, 1989, in Lucknow, Arunima faced adversity early in life. Losing her father, an Indian Army officer, she was raised by her mother, who worked in the health department. Despite the challenges, Arunima excelled in sports, playing football and representing India in volleyball at the national level. Her dream was to join the paramilitary forces, and she was preparing for the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) exam.

Tragedy struck in 2011 when Arunima was robbed and thrown off a moving train while traveling to Delhi for her CISF exam. The fall resulted in a severe leg injury, leading to its amputation below the knee. Undeterred, Arunima resolved to pursue her dreams with even greater determination. Refusing to be defined by her disability, she embarked on a remarkable journey of recovery and resilience.

With a prosthetic leg and unwavering resolve, Arunima set her sights on Mount Everest. Under the mentorship of mountaineering experts like Bachendri Pal, she underwent rigorous training at the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering and TATA Steel Adventure. On May 21, 2013, Arunima’s dream became a reality as she stood atop the world’s highest peak, a testament to her indomitable spirit and courage.

Recognition and Philanthropy

Arunima’s extraordinary achievements have earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious Padma Shri award in 2015. In 2018, the University of Strathclyde in the UK conferred upon her an honorary doctorate in recognition of her remarkable accomplishments.

In addition to her mountaineering feats, Arunima is actively involved in philanthropic endeavors through her non-profit organization, the Arunima Foundation. Dedicated to empowering women and marginalized communities, the foundation focuses on initiatives such as health awareness, environmental services, skill development, and more.

Arunima Sinha’s story continues to inspire people worldwide, serving as a reminder of the human capacity to overcome adversity and reach new heights, both literally and metaphorically.

_{Repurposed article originally published in the She the People}