A group pf 25 transgender people from all over the country climbed the Friendship Peak near Manali, with a participant from Raipur saying that the dream of reaching the top with a tricolour was a joyful and thrilling affair.
Since childhood, Veena Sendre, 26 and India's first 'Miss Trans Queen', dreamt of climbing the Mount Everest one day. The pictures of soldiers carrying the Indian flag always excited and attracted Veena.
Then came the opportunity to be part of a larger team to conquer the 17,352 feet (5,289 meters) high Friendship Peak as part of ‘Project Josh’ for ‘Trans Expedition 2020’.
Veena's selection was finalized by Aryan Pasha, the owner of Project Josh, and Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Laxmi Narayan.
"I was very enthusiastic," Veena told the Pioneer on phone from Manali. "For mountain climbing, I started cycling, running and walking to avoid problems there. After a two-day practice in Manali, the team of 25 transgenders went out for the Friendship Peak," Veena said.
The trek, which began on October 6, was full of adventure. Many challenges cropped up. Lack of oxygen, weight of shoes and deterioration in health due to weather attempted to break the team's courage, she said.
"A time came when I felt I would not be able to take even a step forward. But I did not lose courage. We reached the Friendship Peak on October 11, encouraging each other.
"During this time, many of our companions were injured. But the excitement of reaching the peak was reflected on everyone's face. The dream of reaching a mountain peak with a tricolour in hands came true. This joy is unique," Veena said.