"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
15 Oct 2023
Imagine a land where dreams soar higher than the peaks that crown its landscape. That's where Poorna Malavath's remarkable story began. Hailing from the erstwhile Nizamabad district of Telangana, she accomplished the awe-inspiring feat of scaling Mount Everest at the tender age of 13. She became the youngest Indian and the youngest girl worldwide to reach the summit of the world's highest mountain.
Poorna's astonishing journey continued with an unyielding spirit as she undertook the Seven Summits Challenge, which entails conquering the seven most daunting and towering peaks on Earth. Her list of achievements reads like a mountaineer's dream, including Mount Kilimanjaro (Africa), Mount Elbrus (Europe), Mount Aconcagua (South America), Mount Carstensz Pyramid (Oceania), Mount Vinson (Antarctica), and finally, Mount Denali (North America).
When she reached the pinnacle of Mount Denali last year, Poorna revealed, "It has been almost seven years since I am practicing mountaineering. I completed the Seven Summits Challenge by climbing up Mt. Denali on June 5." Her indomitable spirit and unwavering determination have been her allies in this uphill battle.
In a conversation with ANI, Poorna credited Dr. RS Praveen Kumar, the Chairman of Ace Engineering Academy, for igniting her passion for mountaineering. She expressed her gratitude for his unending support and guidance, emphasizing how his mentorship played a pivotal role in her journey to the summits.
As we celebrate the triumphs of Poorna Malavath, it is fitting to draw inspiration from the Devi of the first day of Navratri, Shailaputri. Shailaputri's name, which means 'Daughter of the Mountains,' perfectly mirrors Poorna's journey, as she ascended the towering peaks of the world, proving that the mountains indeed became her playground. Shailaputri, a manifestation of Goddess Durga, symbolizes strength, determination, and unwavering resolve, much like Poorna's own attributes.