29 May - Tenzing Norgay Nepali-Indian Sherpa mountaineer birth anniversary

 

Tenzing Norgay, born Namgyal Wangdi, was a Nepalese Sherpa mountaineer who gained worldwide fame for being one of the first two individuals to successfully summit Mount Everest, along with Sir Edmund Hillary, on May 29, 1953.

Tenzing Norgay was born in 1914 or 1915 on 29 May in the Khumbu region of Nepal, which is home to Mount Everest. Growing up in a Sherpa community, he became accustomed to the mountainous terrain and developed exceptional mountaineering skills.

Norgay began his mountaineering career at a young age as a porter and soon became a member of several British mountaineering expeditions in the Himalayas. He gained valuable experience and gradually built a reputation as a skilled climber.

In 1953, Norgay joined the British Everest Expedition led by Colonel John Hunt, which aimed to conquer the world's highest peak. Throughout the expedition, Norgay's expertise and knowledge of the local terrain were crucial in establishing camps, fixing ropes, and navigating difficult sections of the mountain.

On the historic day of May 29, 1953, Norgay and Hillary, as part of the climbing team, set out for the summit from their final camp at the South Col. Together, they faced and overcame numerous challenges, including the difficult Hillary Step, a steep rock face near the summit. Finally, after a grueling climb, they reached the summit of Mount Everest, making mountaineering history.

Following his ascent of Everest, Norgay continued his career as a mountaineer and participated in various expeditions. He became a respected figure in the mountaineering community and received numerous accolades and honors for his achievements.

Tenzing Norgay passed away on May 9, 1986, in Darjeeling, India. His legacy as one of the first individuals to conquer Mount Everest remains indelible, and his ascent paved the way for future generations of climbers to attempt the world's highest peak. Norgay's remarkable achievements and his role as a Sherpa ambassador have inspired countless individuals and highlighted the contributions of the Sherpa people to mountaineering