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Dancer Scales Everest: A Prayer in Bharatanatyam
22 May
Summary
- Saanika Shah summited Mount Everest on May 20, 2026, at 11:23 AM Nepal time.
- She performed a Bharatanatyam recital at Everest's base camp as a prayer.
- Shah previously climbed Mount Elbrus and Mount Kilimanjaro, aiming for Seven Summits.
Indian mountaineer and Bharatanatyam dancer Saanika Shah achieved a significant milestone by summiting Mount Everest on May 20, 2026. Reaching the summit at 11:23 AM Nepal time, the 21-year-old from Mumbai was accompanied by experienced climbing guides. This achievement is a major step in her pursuit of the Seven Summits challenge, having previously conquered Mount Elbrus and Mount Kilimanjaro.
Prior to her ascent, Shah performed a Bharatanatyam recital at the Everest Base Camp. She described the performance as a prayer to 'Sagarmatha Devi,' embodying her deep respect and spiritual connection to the sacred mountain. Her journey was facilitated by Elite Exped, a firm specializing in high-altitude guiding.
Shah's ascent adds to her notable mountaineering achievements. She is recognized as the youngest Indian and first Indian woman to climb Himlung Himal in October 2025. Her unique approach blends her passion for dance with her adventurous spirit, offering a spiritual dimension to extreme mountaineering.
