Legacy Honored: Tenzing Norgay Award

On January 9, 2024, Radhe Shyam Kanswal stood with profound strength as he accepted the Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award, a posthumous recognition bestowed upon his late daughter, Savita Kanswal. The honor commemorates Savita’s remarkable feat as the first Indian woman to conquer both Mount Everest and Mount Makalu within an extraordinary 16-day period.

Presented by President Droupadi Murmu, the award not only acknowledges a groundbreaking mountaineering accomplishment but also pays tribute to Savita’s unwavering strength, courage, and pursuit of excellence in the face of adversity.

Savita Kanswal’s illustrious journey tragically concluded in October 2022 during a mission on Draupadi Ka Danda-II. As the lead climber fixing ropes on the summit, she faced an avalanche that claimed her life, a testament to her commitment to mountaineering that endured until her last breath.

Despite the solemn circumstances, the Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award became a moment of solace and pride for Savita’s family. Radhe Shyam Kanswal, embodying strength amid loss, became the poignant figure receiving accolades for his departed daughter’s unparalleled achievements. Amidst resounding applause, the audience witnessed a mix of sorrow and pride during this emotionally charged moment.

Savita Kanswal’s family, moved to tears, stood as a testament to the profound impact she had on their lives. The occasion was not just an acknowledgment of her mountaineering feats but a celebration of a life lived fearlessly, leaving an enduring mark on the hearts of those she touched. The familial bond reflected the unity arising from shared sorrow and the joy derived from the recognition of a loved one’s extraordinary accomplishments.

Leaders, including Union Minister Anurag Thakur and IAS officer Sonal Goel, acknowledged the significance of this heartwarming moment. Thakur expressed the depth of emotions and the pride felt as Radhe Shyam Kanswal accepted the award on behalf of his late daughter. Sonal Goel referred to Savita Kanswal as “desh ki beti” (daughter of the nation), saluting her indelible legacy. The recognition from esteemed personalities reflects the broader acknowledgment of Savita’s contribution to adventure and mountaineering.

Savita’s legacy extends beyond the summits she conquered, resonating in the hearts of those she inspired—a legacy destined to inspire generations of adventure enthusiasts.

_{Repurposed article originally published in ShethePeople}