Biography:
Archana Sardana is India’s first female BASE jumper. Born in Jammu and raised in Srinagar, she developed a passion for adventure sports at a young age. After completing her schooling, Sardana pursued her interest in interior design and graduated with a diploma in the field.
Sardana’s journey in adventure sports began when she married Commander Rajiv Sardana, an electrical officer of the Indian Navy. Inspired by her husband’s love for adventure, she decided to explore the world of extreme sports herself. She enrolled in the ‘Adventure and Advanced Mountaineering’ courses at the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute in Darjeeling and the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering.
With a thirst for adrenaline-pumping experiences, Sardana took up skydiving and became a certified skydiver with a ‘C’ license from the United States Parachute Association. She completed a remarkable 335 skydives and was the first person to skydive with the Indian flag in the United States. Her achievement not only showcased her bravery but also symbolized her pride in her country.
In addition to skydiving, Sardana also ventured into BASE jumping, a thrilling sport that involves jumping off fixed objects, such as buildings or cliffs. She became the first Indian to BASE jump off the KL Tower in Malaysia, proudly carrying the Indian flag with her. Sardana has performed a total of 45 BASE jumps in various locations around the world.
With her passion for water sports, Sardana founded the ‘Archana Sardana Scuba Diving Academy,’ where she shares her skills and knowledge with fellow adventure enthusiasts. Her academy aims to promote scuba diving as a recreational sport and provide comprehensive training to individuals.
Archana Sardana’s achievements have made her a pioneer in the world of extreme sports in India. Her dedication and fearlessness have been recognized and applauded by many. As a result, she has been awarded the prestigious Padma Shri award, acknowledging her incredible contributions to the field of adventure sports.
Sardana’s influence on society goes beyond her personal achievements. As one of the few licensed female skydivers in India, she serves as an inspiration to women who aspire to break barriers and pursue their passions. Her story encourages others to embrace adventure and overcome their fears, proving that anything is possible with determination and courage.
Despite her adventurous lifestyle, Sardana remains a devoted mother to her two sons, Pranav and Ayush. Both of them share her passion for adventure and aim to follow in their mother’s footsteps.
Archana Sardana’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the exhilaration that comes from pushing one’s limits. By defying conventions and charting her path in a male-dominated field, she has paved the way for future generations of women to explore their adventurous spirits.
Awards:
– Padma Shri award