Anshu Jamsenpa, the record-holder mountaineer from Arunachal Pradesh is among seven sportspersons that were named for Padma awards in 2021. She also happens to be the only sportsperson from the northeast among 14 personalities for the prestigious award.
Anshu Jamsenpa, who has climbed the world’s highest peak, for five times, said that it’s a huge boost for the mountaineering.
“It’s been a huge honour and at the same time, it’s an added responsibility. I’m excited and happy. What makes me happier to see happy faces all around!” Anshu tells The News Mill.
“It’s not just for me – but for my state and for the entire mountaineering fraternity as well. It’s a huge moment. This will motivate the youths to take sports seriously. It means a lot to me. I have to keep working towards spreading the message of mountaineering sports. I will be glad if I can contribute to making this sport more popular among the youths in our country.”
Anshu Jamsenpa climbed Mount Everest twice in 2017
In 2017, Anshu Jamsenpa climbed Mount Everest twice – double ascent – within the span of five days. Earlier, in 2011, she did a double ascent within 10 days. In 2013, she climbed it once. She also attempted in 2015 but due to the Nepal earthquake, her expedition had to be called off.
“It has been a great journey. Life has never been a bed of roses. Yes, I agree that I’m privileged to have some facilities in my life to pursue my aim but it’s been a roller coaster ride. I have learnt from the failures and prepared for the next step in a more determined way,” she said.
“I would like to thank my family, my kids for being there always. I would also to thank my instructors, sponsors, family, friends and well-wishers who have been kind to me that helped me to remain positive and keep working,” Anshu Jamsenpa added.
Other sportspersons to be named for Padma awards were K Y Venkatesh (Karnataka), P Anitha (Tamil Nadu), Mouma Das (West Bengal), Madhavan Nambiar (Kerala), Sudha Hari Narayan Singh (Uttar Pradesh) and Virender Singh (Haryana).
