Silvester D'Souza
Daijiworld Media Network – Kundapur (EP)
Kundapur, Jun 15: Harshad Rao, a youth of Kundapur origin has climbed the 8,848 meter high Mount Everest, the highest mountain in the world.
Harshad Rao, a computer engineer from Pune, son of Kundapur Ardiya residents, retired Canara Bank Officer Kamalaksha Mahalinga Rao and Hemalatha scaled the mountain on May 21 and hoisted the Indian flag on the summit. He had prepared for the climb for eight months and spent more than Rs 28 lac. His journey began on March 29.
Harshad, a BSc degree holder had a passion for adventure since his childhood. He was interested in mountain climbing. As his parents and friends supported him, he had the reputation for climbing several mountains. He has climbed many mountains before including Dhak Bahiri. He received training from experienced mountaineers for the purpose.
He set off from Pune on March 29 for Kathmandu where he obtained training from experienced mountaineers. Strenuous exercises, limited food and new environment were no deterrents for him. Being a Kannadiga, he was determined to climb the mountain. He started on his venture on May 17. On reaching the summit on May 21 he hoisted the national flag.
He disclosed that this mission was solely funded by him and not by the Indian government. The Nepal government has felicitated him with military honours. He was brought in procession and honoured by the Nepal prime minister.
Harshad's family is very proud of him.