Dancer Climbs Everest, Performs Bharatanatyam on Ice

Saanika Shah, a 22-year-old film school graduate, has successfully summited Mount Everest, fulfilling a manifestation from her teenage years. Six years after writing her goal in a journal, she reached the summit on May 20, celebrating her birthday on the mountain.

Prior to her summit push, Shah performed Bharatanatyam at Everest Base Camp, over 5,300 meters high, as a spiritual offering. This unique act gained significant online attention.

Her mountaineering journey began during the 2020 lockdown, inspired by the film 'Everest'. She trained rigorously, balancing her passion for dance with demanding physical preparation.

Shah's parents financially supported her dream, which cost over Rs 50 lakh this season, despite increased permit fees from Nepal.

Her previous climbs, including Himlung Himal, served as crucial stepping stones for her Everest expedition. She believes her success on Himlung Himal made her the youngest Indian and first Indian woman to summit that peak.

During her descent, Shah lost consciousness after her oxygen mask froze. Her Sherpa guide, Lakpa Tenjen Sherpa, saved her by giving her his mask.

Shah aims to complete the Seven Summits challenge and is now recovering at home, planning to learn a musical instrument.