After conquering the Seven Summits across seven continents, Kaamya Karthikeyan, 17, now sets her sights on the Explorer's Grand Slam, a gruelling challenge that involves reaching both the North and South Poles in addition to completing the Seven Summits. Her ambition, coupled with her proven track record of success, makes her a strong contender to join the ranks of the world’s elite adventurers.
I hope my journey inspires others to pursue their passions,” Kaamya Karthikeyan said, radiating humility and determination. At just 17 years old, Kaamya has achieved an extraordinary feat, becoming the youngest girl in the world to complete the prestigious Seven Summits Challenge. This incredible accomplishment is a testament to her courage, perseverance, and unyielding spirit.
Kaamya’s mountaineering journey began at the tender age of 13, fuelled by an insatiable curiosity for adventure and an unshakable resolve to conquer new heights. Her ascent of Mount Everest in May 2024 marked a crowning achievement in her Seven Summits journey. Scaling the world's tallest peak alongside her father, Commander S. Karthikeyan of the Indian Navy, was a moment of triumph not only for Kaamya but for the countless individuals who look up to her as a beacon of inspiration.
Rajeev Gupta, the founder of the Ideate Inspire Ignite Foundation in Ranchi, recognized the magnitude of Kaamya's accomplishment and invited her to share her story at the Everest Summit program on August 18, 2024. The program, which brought together 18 Everest summiteers from across India, served as a platform to celebrate courage, perseverance, and the transformative power of adventure sports. The foundation has consistently worked to foster a culture of adventure and inspiration in Ranchi and Jharkhand, hosting similar events in previous years to honor mountaineers and inspire local communities.
Kaamya’s achievement is a proud moment for India and an inspiration to the world. Her journey to conquer the Seven Summits took her to the highest peaks of each continent: Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa, Mount Elbrus in Europe, Mount Kosciuszko in Australia, Mount Aconcagua in South America, Mount Denali in North America, Mount Everest in Asia, and finally, Mount Vinson in Antarctica in 2024. Each peak presented its own set of challenges, testing her endurance, mental fortitude, and adaptability. Through these climbs, Kaamya gained invaluable lessons about courage, perseverance, and the awe-inspiring beauty of our planet.
Kaamya attributes her success to the unwavering support of her parents, particularly her father, who has been a guiding force in her journey. She has dedicated her achievement to all dreamers, emphasizing that no goal is too lofty if pursued with passion and determination.
Gupta reiterated his commitment to hosting the Everest Summit program annually in Ranchi, ensuring that stories like Kaamya's continue to inspire generations to come. Ranchi eagerly anticipates welcoming Kaamya again, as her journey symbolizes the boundless possibilities that arise when determination meets opportunity.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Kaamya Karthikeyan and wish her all the best in her future expeditions. Her story is a shining example of how dreams, when pursued with unwavering dedication, can become reality.
