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Indian Mountaineer Shivangi Pathak climbs Mount Kosciuszko to mark Republic Day and Australia Day

“This climb is dedicated to my country, India, and the love and support I’ve received from my family and friends in Australia."

A feat that symbolises international friendship and personal achievement, Indian mountaineer Shivangi Pathak scaled Mount Kosciuszko, Australia’s highest peak, on January 26, 2025.

The 22-year-old’s ascent marks a special occasion as she celebrated both India’s 76th Republic Day and Australia Day, paying tribute to her homeland while acknowledging the spirit of adventure that transcends borders.

Image Source: Supplied
Image Source: Supplied

At noon, Shivangi reached the summit of Mount Kosciuszko, proudly hoisting the Indian tricolour atop the peak. The climb was an emblematic act of unity, bringing together the national pride of India with the joy of Australia Day, celebrated the same day. This unique cross-national gesture resonates with the growing ties between India and Australia, as both nations share a strong relationship based on shared values, culture, and collaboration.

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Shivangi, hailing from the Indian state of Haryana, has already established herself as one of the youngest and most accomplished mountaineers of her generation. Known for her achievements across the globe, she has conquered four of the Seven Summits – the highest peaks of each of the seven continents. This latest achievement adds to her prestigious list, further solidifying her place as a trailblazer in the mountaineering world.

Image Source: Supplied
Image Source: Supplied

Shivangi’s love for mountaineering began at an early age, and she quickly rose to prominence when, at just 16 years old, she hoisted the Indian flag on the summit of Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak. This breathtaking accomplishment earned her the Prime Minister’s Bal Shakti Puraskar, which was presented to her by the President of India, marking her as an inspiration to millions of young Indians. Since then, she has continued to push the boundaries of her ambitions, defying expectations and establishing herself as a force to be reckoned with in the field of mountaineering.

Her climb of Mount Kosciuszko is part of her quest to complete the Seven Summits challenge, a prestigious mountaineering achievement that requires scaling the tallest mountain on each continent. With Mount Kosciuszko now under her belt, Shivangi’s next target is Indonesia’s Carstensz Pyramid, one of the Seven Summits.

Image Source: Supplied
Image Source: Supplied

In a heartfelt statement after the climb, Shivangi expressed her deep gratitude to her family, mentors, and supporters who have played an instrumental role in her journey. She thanked Vedic Global Sanstha, Brahmin Sabha of Australia, and Juice Veda for their unwavering support, as well as her teachers and family for providing her with the encouragement she needed to succeed.

“This climb is dedicated to my country, India, and the love and support I’ve received from my family and friends. It’s a great honour to raise the Indian flag on Mount Kosciuszko on such a significant day, marking both Republic Day and Australia Day.

“I hope my journey inspires many young people, especially women, to pursue their dreams and break barriers,”

she said.

Shivangi’s achievement is not just a personal milestone but also a reflection of the strong bond between India and Australia. The symbolic gesture of celebrating both Republic Day and Australia Day through mountaineering reflects the shared values of determination, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence.

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Image Source: Supplied
Image Source: Supplied

Rakesh Raizada, Director of Vedic Global Sanstha told The Australia Today, “We are immensely proud to support Shivangi Pathak in her remarkable pursuit of excellence.

“Her unwavering dedication to conquering the world’s highest peaks is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. Shivangi’s journey reflects the values of perseverance, courage, and ambition that we hold dear, he added.

“We stand behind her every step of the way as she continues to inspire not only the youth of India but the world, proving that with passion and determination, no summit is too high to reach.”

Both India and Australia have been closely collaborating in various sectors, including education, business, and cultural exchange. Shivangi’s climb underscores the growing mutual respect and admiration between the two nations, further cementing the idea that sports and adventure can bridge cultures and unite people across borders.

As she prepares to conquer her next challenge, the Carstensz Pyramid in Indonesia, Shivangi continues to inspire young adventurers around the world. Her journey stands as a testament to the power of resilience, dedication, and the unwavering pursuit of one’s dreams.

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