On the morning of August 29, 2025, India celebrated not only National Sports Day but also a new chapter in its sporting story. In Malaipattu, Kancheepuram District of Tamil Nadu, a six-year-old girl stood at the edge of a 155-foot cliff. With a blindfold tied securely across her eyes, little Thevaky B Rajkumar leaned back on her harness, gripped the rope, and began her descent.

 In four minutes and thirty-two seconds, she made history, becoming the youngest girl in the world to perform blindfold rock rappelling from 155 feet. Her feat was officially certified by the Asia Book of Records, India Book of Records, and The Noble Book of World Records. This wasn’t just a display of skill it was a demonstration of courage, resilience, and India’s hidden sporting potential.

What is Rock Rappelling?

Rock rappelling also known as abseiling is an adventure sport and mountaineering technique where a person descends a steep rock face or cliff using a rope, harness, and safety gear. Instead of climbing up, rappelling focuses on coming down in a controlled manner. The rope is anchored securely at the top, and the person uses a belay device or knots to manage the speed of descent. It requires strength, balance, and proper technique to stay safe while navigating vertical drops. Rappelling is often used in rock climbing, canyoning, rescue missions, and military training, but it has also become a popular adventure activity for thrill-seekers.

Little Steps, Big Courage

Ironically, Thevaky’s journey into mountaineering began not with ambition but with fear. Her father, Mr. Rajkumar S.P., enrolled her in a mountaineering class to help her overcome her nervousness about nature and the outdoors. What started as a simple confidence-building activity soon ignited a passion that drove her to achieve the extraordinary. With this unwavering family support, hesitation slowly turned into determination, and at just six years old, Thevaky transformed her fear into fearlessness, inspiring children and parents across the country. Behind her daring act was systematic training. Thevaky was guided by Mr. R. Thirulogachandran, General Secretary of the Tamil Nadu Mountaineering Association, who served as her primary coach. She also received consistent mentoring from Mr. Ramanan.

Courage Backed by Care

Though Thevaky’s daring descent drew admiration, every step of her attempt was anchored in safety. Before she approached the cliff, her fitness and readiness were carefully evaluated by specialists. Dr. K. Vijaya Ragavan, Consultant Paediatrician, examined her physical health, while Dr. Vivek Arun Kumar, Consultant Psychiatrist, ensured she was mentally prepared for the challenge. Only after receiving clearance from both experts at Annai Arul Hospital was she allowed to proceed. This thoughtful approach highlighted a crucial message: true bravery is not reckless but carefully prepared, showing that with the right care and guidance, even the youngest adventurers can achieve extraordinary feats. 

Thevaky entered the Asia Book of Records and the India Book of Records as the youngest to perform a blindfolded rappelling feat, while the Noble Book of World Records honored her as the youngest girl to rappel 155 feet blindfolded. These accolades not only celebrated her courage and skill but also highlighted the importance of introducing children to adventure sports in a structured, safe, and encouraging environment.

Why Adventure Sports Matter for Children

Adventure sports like rock climbing and rappelling play a vital role in shaping children’s physical, mental, and emotional growth. They help youngsters build confidence, overcome fear, and develop resilience at an early age. Unlike traditional classroom learning, these activities encourage problem-solving, teamwork, and quick decision-making in real-life situations. They also improve strength, balance, and coordination, while nurturing a love for the outdoors. 

Most importantly, when introduced in a safe and structured way, adventure sports teach children that challenges are not obstacles but opportunities to grow—an invaluable lesson for life itself. Sport climbing debuted at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and will return as a core discipline in Los Angeles 2028. Globally, it has captured youth imagination as a test of endurance, focus, and creativity.

In the end, six-year-old Thevaky’s descent was more than a sporting act. It was a story of a child’s courage, a family’s support, a coach’s guidance, and a nation’s potential. As her rope touched the ground after 155 feet, she proved that age is no barrier, fear can become strength, and even the youngest voices can echo in history. India’s sporting future may well find its next champion  not just in cricket fields or badminton courts, but on the rocky cliffs and climbing walls where dreams meet courage.