Patiala, May 5: A 43-year-old prison officer from Sydney has become the first Punjabi woman to reach the summit of Nepal’s Mount Ama Dablam. Sukhvir Kaur, originally from Patiala, completed the climb on April 15, marking a significant milestone in regional sports history. The expedition involved leading a multinational team and overcoming life-threatening conditions, including a forced retreat due to an avalanche.
Kaur affirmed that the journey required intense resilience, particularly when she was trapped at high altitude with minimal food supplies. She noted that the experience was a testament to the strength of women, asserting that personal milestones can be achieved at any stage of life. During her time at the summit, she played Punjabi music and displayed a white dupatta to represent her cultural background.
The mountaineer maintained that her family played a crucial role in her success. She stated that her husband’s family in Barnala encouraged her to pursue the rigorous training required for such a feat. Before transitioning to her career in Australia and her recent passion for trekking, Kaur was known for her work in the Punjabi film industry.
At a special function in Bathinda, Kaur was recognized for her dual distinction as the sixth Indian and 25th Australian woman to successfully climb the mountain. Personalities including Olympian Avneet Kaur Sidhu praised her determination and the message she sent to women across the state. Having already conquered Lobuche Peak, Kaur stated that her focus has now shifted to preparing for a Mount Everest expedition.
