How are you feeling right now?

I feel overwhelmed. I think right now, the world has seen what a human being is capable of, given you are completely committed and dedicated. I am happy this will set a good example for the upcoming generation.

 

It’s an astonishing feat you have just achieved, climbing all 14 peaks in the world above 8,000m in just six months. The previous record for the same feat was nearly eight years. How did the idea even occur to you?

I did the Everest, Lhotse and Makalu mountains within five days back in 2017. I later realized I could have done it in three, had I not rested. A lot of people didn’t believe me at the time but the idea for this record came to me back then.

 

What motivates you to constantly keep pushing your limits? Is it something you learned, or were you born like that?

I have always had the desire to do the impossible. For that, I think you have to believe in yourself first. I joined the British Army and then became a commando and finally joined the Special Forces. But I couldn’t stop at that. I had to aim higher. I think everyone can achieve the goals in their lives if they mold themselves accordingly and believe in their vision.

 

How were you as a school kid? Were you very ambitious even at that time?

Very ambitious (laughs). I was the House Captain in my school (Small Heaven School, Chitwan) in Grade 7 and became the Head Boy of the school in Grade 9.

 

How did you end up in the British Army in 2003? Was it something you always wanted to do?

I had family in the British Army and that was what inspired me to join the force from an early age.

 

How hard was it for you to leave your budding military career for an uncertain mountaineering future?

I spent 16 years in the British Army. For 10 years I was actually fighting while for another six years I was in lower risk areas. I gave it up to focus on my dream. It was not only for me though. I wanted to open the avenue for other Nepali climbers as well. I wanted to challenge human limitations and open the scope for further imagination on what a human body can achieve. Of course a lot of dedication and commitment was necessary but I was prepared for it.

 

Are you already planning your next audacious venture?

My focus right now is on producing a feature film based on my adventures which is expected to release in 2021. I will always be doing some climbing in between but I am not targeting any records for now.

 

What message would you like to give to all those who supported your venture in cash or kind?

The project was never about me individually or a race or a community. It was about the limits a human being can push to, and for that, I got support from all over the world. Even China gave me the otherwise tricky permit that helped me complete my record. For all the support I got and towards all my well-wishers, I want to stay humble and respectful while I continue doing my work.

 

What are your other hobbies besides mountaineering?

It’s all extreme sports. I like diving (under water) and skydiving. Will you continue climbing mountains and setting new records, or are you also thinking of breaking records in other fields? I have not had the time to think about that. But you never know.

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(Interviewed by Sunny Mahat)