Biography:
Arunima Sinha, born on July 20, 1988, in Akbarpur, Ambedkar Nagar near Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, is an extraordinary Indian mountaineer and sportswoman. She has achieved remarkable feats in the field of mountaineering, becoming the world’s first female amputee to scale the highest peaks on seven continents. Sinha’s inspiring journey is a testament to her unwavering determination, perseverance, and indomitable spirit.
Coming from a modest background, Sinha belonged to a family deeply rooted in the values of the Indian Army. Her father served in the Indian Army, while her mother worked as a supervisor in the health department. Arunima had an elder sister and a younger brother, and together, they experienced the challenges that life presented to them.
From a young age, Arunima developed a passion for sports, particularly football and volleyball. She excelled in these sports and even represented India as a national-level volleyball player. Her dream was to join the paramilitary forces, and she received a call letter from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), bringing her closer to her aspirations.
However, tragedy struck on April 12, 2011, as Arunima found herself caught in a fateful incident that would change her life forever. While traveling to Delhi by the Padmavati Express train, she encountered a group of robbers who intended to snatch her bag and gold chain. Despite putting up a brave resistance, she was forcibly pushed out of the moving train. Helpless and injured, she fell on the railway track, and another train on a parallel track tragically crushed her leg below the knee.
The injuries Arunima sustained were severe, and she was rushed to the hospital for immediate medical attention. The doctors, in an effort to save her life, had to amputate her leg. It was a devastating blow for Arunima, as she had lost a vital part of her body. However, this setback did not dampen her spirit or diminish her resolve.
Instead of allowing herself to be consumed by despair, Arunima turned her tragedy into her greatest strength. She embarked on a remarkable journey of transformation, defying all odds and proving that the human spirit knows no limits. Determined to achieve great heights, both literally and metaphorically, she set her sights on conquering the highest peaks on seven continents.
Arunima’s mountaineering career began with her successful ascent of Mount Everest in Asia, a feat she accomplished in 2013. This remarkable achievement earned her global recognition, establishing her as the first female amputee to conquer the legendary mountain. Undeterred by her physical limitations, she embarked on a series of extraordinary expeditions, conquering one continent after another.
In 2014, Arunima scaled Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa, followed by Mount Elbrus in Europe, Mount Kosciuszko in Australia, Mount Aconcagua in South America, and Mount Denali in North America. With each summit, she shattered societal norms and redefined what was possible.
Finally, on January 1, 2019, Arunima achieved her final triumph by conquering Mount Vinson in Antarctica. With this extraordinary feat, she became the first female amputee to scale the seven highest peaks on the seven continents. Her unwavering determination, relentless perseverance, and sheer grit have inspired millions of people around the world.
Recognizing her indomitable spirit and incredible achievements, the Government of India honored Arunima Sinha with the prestigious Padma Shri award in 2015. This recognition serves as a testament to her remarkable contribution to the field of mountaineering and her inspirational journey of overcoming adversity.
Arunima Sinha’s life story is a true embodiment of resilience, courage, and determination. She has not only broken countless barriers but has also exemplified the strength of the human spirit. Her journey inspires us to face our own challenges with unwavering determination and to believe that with perseverance, anything is possible.
Awards:
-Padma Shri award (2015)