Indian Writing

Sherpas have worked as porters, fixed ropes, set up camps, and generally been essential and invaluable support for Himalayan expeditions. When Hillary summited Everest, Sherpa Tenzing summited along with him.

It’s incredible that it should have taken so long, but Apa Sherpa and Lhakpa Gelu Sherpa are leading an all-Sherpa team up Mount Everest for the first time ever.

This Indian Express report by Shamik Bag quotes Lhakpa:

“Many Westerners come to Everest and make hollow promises that if we get them to the top they will help but we never hear from them again. They disappear like a crow flying in the fog.”

In a couple of days, the Sherpas will reach the peak. Good luck to them.

“I felt that so often in life we complain about systems and societies and here was an option to do something without complaining. This was a chance to come back and do something for an institute that I believe is vital to the country.”

When was the last time I heard such words?

Lovely interview of Leela Samson by Baradwaj Rangan.