Chennai’s 18-year-old Ashish U has etched his name in history as the youngest team leader in the world to summit Mount Everest, a feat driven by passion, perseverance, and a promise to his late father.
Ashish’s mountaineering journey began in 2022, when he first learned about the sport. Already an avid cyclist, he was instantly drawn to the challenge. “After researching, I realised the financial requirements were huge. But the dream of standing on the world’s highest peak never left my mind,” Ashish recalled.
Determined, he enrolled in a 15-day basic mountaineering course in Uttarkashi, where he gained crucial skills and the backing of his school correspondent, Vel Mohan. His plans, however, were put on hold in 2024 when his father lost his battle with blood cancer. Emotionally unready, Ashish postponed his expedition to 2025, vowing to climb in his father’s memory.
He went on to complete an advanced course in West Bengal, and for the Everest mission, 90–95% of the expenses were sponsored by his school, with the Tamil Nadu government covering the rest. Ashish set out from Chennai on April 5, heading to the Khumbu Glacier. Leading a five-member team, he waited at camp until climbing ropes were secured, ultimately guiding them to the summit.
“Climbing Everest is a test of body, mind, willpower, and courage,” Ashish said. He described acclimatising by reaching the oxygen point and returning to base camp under the guidance of a Sherpa. “The ascent usually starts at night because morning ice melts can cause deadly blockfalls.”
From a teenager with a newfound passion to the youngest Everest team leader, Ashish’s achievement stands as a testament to grit, preparation, and the power of a dream — one he fulfilled for both himself and his late father