Hyderabad adventurer Anjani conquers Mount Elbrus, aims for all seven summits
Hyderabad: A marketing professional named Anjani from Hyderabad recently achieved a significant milestone by climbing Mount Elbrus, the highest mountain in Europe, standing at 5,462 meters (18,510 feet).
Speaking to the Hyderabad Mail, Anjani shared her inspiring journey in the world of mountaineering.
Born in Punjab and raised in Hyderabad, Anjani comes from a military family. Her father is an ex-army serviceman. Anjani, an aspiring Indian Army candidate, has nurtured a passion for sports and adventure activities since childhood. Before the Covid-19 pandemic, she began cycling and running long distances, which laid the groundwork for her adventurous pursuits. She said that, being an Army Brat, she always lived an active lifestyle. She has been an athlete since childhood and got into endurance runs and rides during Covid-19.
“After Covid-19, I took a basic mountaineering course at the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering in Uttarkashi. The Everest Base Camp Trek, which is 5,364m and is the base of the top of the world, during the winter of December 2021 to January 2022, almost touched -30 degrees, and I experienced real adventure, which was challenging but very rewarding. I also experienced the world’s second-highest bungee jump, the Cliff 228 meters at Kusma, Nepal. Later, I climbed the tallest mountain on the African continent and the highest free-standing mountain in the world, Mount Kilimanjaro, which is 5,895 meters, on February 24, 2023. And now, I recently climbed Mount Elbrus on July 8,” Anjani stated.
Anjani expressed her ambition to conquer all seven summits on the seven continents. Reflecting on her journey, she noted that despite her initial lack of experience in 2022, the challenging tasks set by her instructors at the Nehru Institute helped her gain confidence. “Two experienced runners and several officers reached the summit within a limited time, which motivated me to pursue mountaineering further,” she said.
To stay physically and mentally active, Anjani hosts running and cycling events as a core member of the Happy Hyderabad group. The group focuses on promoting health and happiness in the city, and like-minded individuals come together to train for free. In January 2024, Anjani completed a full marathon (42 km) at the Tata Mumbai Marathon. She also mentioned that she’s a core member of Hyderabad Cycling Revolution and Relief Riders Hyderabad.
During her climb of Mount Elbrus, Anjani faced challenging conditions, including heavy winds, storms, and steep snow-covered slopes. “The climb was tougher compared to Mount Kilimanjaro. We faced severe weather, requiring us to wear multiple layers and crampons for traction on the ice,” she explained. Anjani’s team consisted of 12 members—10 Russians and 2 Indians. Despite the challenging circumstances, their guide was crucial in motivating the team.
Anjani stressed the importance of wearing proper gear to avoid serious risks, saying “Wearing inadequate clothing could lead to hypothermia.” She also shared insights about the personal growth she experienced through mountaineering, stating, “Mountains have taught me humility and the importance of stability. Running, cycling, and mountaineering represent freedom and happiness. The feeling of accomplishment after reaching the finish line brings me immense joy. I am closely connected to like-minded people and nature. Life without cool people, big mountains, and trees is less rich.”
For future climbers, Anjani advised thorough research and planning before undertaking such expeditions. “Understanding the environment and wearing appropriate gear is vital to ensure safety,” she remarked.
Having funded her previous climbs with personal savings, Anjani now has her sights set on Mount Everest. She mentioned the necessity of support from corporate companies and the government, as the estimated cost of this expedition could exceed Rs. 30 lakhs.
