Bangalore-based software enginner, Satyarup Siddhanta, plans to climb seven summits in seven continents. A native of West Bengal, Siddhanta has led successful expeditions to Kilimanjaro, Elbrus and Aconcagua.
From December 27, 2013, to January 15, 2014, Siddhanta, along with his mountaineering team, has scaled Mount Elbrus, the highest mountain in Europe, becoming the first Indian team to do so.
Speaking to reporters, he said, “I have never lived in the mountains to naturally develop a liking for them. I just began loving them randomly and set myself a task, turning my interest into passion. Once I completed my mountaineering course, I began the mission of scaling each one of them.” He said scaling Mount Aconcagua in Argentina was the toughest.
The harsh weather and wind that blew at a speed of 80 kilometres per hour almost claimed his fingers, he explained.
“If one does not keep himself well equipped and maintain good health, a fun experience can end in a catastrophe. The tissues would turn yellow, then blue, to an extent that you cannot feel anything. It can even be cut with knives and won’t know a thing. I once had to undergo surgery to ensure I retained my finger,” he said.
The mountaineer is planning his next expedition to Alaska this June as part of his seven-summit project.