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Bengaluru
Bengaluru’s Sandeep Vijaykumar Shah has made headlines as he becomes the first Indian to summit Mount Elbrus, Europe’s tallest peak, from its northern flank. Accompanied by fellow climber Rekha Tewari, Shah achieved this remarkable feat on September 2, 2023, after a grueling 19-hour climb that began on September 1. The duo’s expedition, which started from the base camp on August 29, was confirmed by the Russian mountaineering organization Mountain Guide, highlighting their successful traverse from the east to west summit before descending to the south face.
Shah’s journey to the summit was not without challenges. The freezing temperatures and limited vegetarian food options tested their resolve, yet the climbers persevered. Shah, who is also the founder-director of Reroute Integrated Fitness, a platform dedicated to mountaineering and trekking, emphasized the importance of connecting with nature and promoting environmental conservation through outdoor activities.
Prior to conquering Mount Elbrus, Shah and his team successfully scaled Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, on August 23, 2023. This achievement marks a significant step in Shah’s ambitious goal to climb all 14 of the world’s “eight-thousanders,” peaks exceeding 8,000 meters, primarily located in the Himalayas and Karakoram ranges. He aims to complete this challenge by 2025.
Despite his accomplishments, Shah expressed concern over the lack of support for mountaineering in India. He noted that it took him three years to gather the necessary funds for his Elbrus expedition, contrasting this with the more substantial financial backing available to foreign climbers. Shah advocates for better training facilities and equipment access for aspiring Indian mountaineers, emphasizing their role as first responders during natural disasters.
Shah’s journey from a tech professional to a dedicated mountaineer reflects a growing trend of individuals in India pursuing adventure sports. His story serves as an inspiration for many, showcasing the potential for personal transformation through the challenges of mountaineering. As he continues his quest to conquer the world’s highest peaks, Shah remains committed to fostering a deeper appreciation for nature and its conservation among the public.
