Chennai, June 10: Dr. Priya Selvaraj, a mountaineer from Tamil Nadu, has achieved what many only dream of after turning 50. Within just six to seven months, she successfully scaled two of the world’s most challenging peaks, Mount Manaslu and Mount Everest, setting a remarkable precedent.
Dr. Selvaraj shared that her interest in mountaineering blossomed during a phase in her life when she found the time, opportunity, and the right mindset. She viewed the mountains as a sanctuary for her physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Starting with trekking, she gradually learned the technical aspects of climbing and began professional training.
Under her coach’s guidance, she prepared both physically and technically. So far, she has trained for four major expeditions. Her first significant choice was Mount Manaslu, known as the “Mountain of Spirit.”
According to Dr. Selvaraj, climbing Manaslu is considered an ideal start before attempting any of the 14 highest peaks in the world, each over 8,000 meters. She described this journey as not just a climbing expedition but a spiritual experience. After three weeks, she summited the peak and returned feeling more clear-headed, energized, and transformed.
Following her success on Manaslu, many advised her to climb Mount Everest. Although Everest was not her initial preference, she accepted the challenge due to favorable weather and expert recommendations. Due to a lack of permission from China, she had to ascend via the southern route, the most commonly used path.
Dr. Selvaraj stated that her experience on Mount Everest was the most difficult, challenging, and transformative of her life. It tested her mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. She emphasized that if one mountain had to be placed at the top, it would undoubtedly be Everest.
During her ascent, she faced numerous tough situations. At one point, bad weather forced her to spend an extra night in the “death zone,” where hunger and energy are non-existent, yet she persevered.
The most dangerous experience occurred during her descent in the Khumbu Icefall, one of the world’s riskiest mountain areas. She fell into a deep crevasse. Dr. Selvaraj recounted that her guide, Anup Guru, had instructed her to secure a safety rope beforehand, which ultimately saved her life.
She reflected that had she not heeded her guide’s advice, she might not be alive today. Her guide used his strength and wisdom to pull her out. Remembering this experience, she noted that coming so close to death alters one’s perspective on life entirely.
Regarding her future plans, Dr. Selvaraj mentioned that she does not set large goals but rather moves forward with the circumstances and opportunities that arise.
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