As 17-year-olds, Nungshi and Tashi Malik told their father about their dream of scaling a mountain; Little did they know, that their wishes would come to fruition six years later, and how! Thanks to their persistence and hard work, the twins have managed to complete their final summit – Mt. Vinson – the highest peak in Antarctica, 6 nautical miles from the South pole. By achieving such a feat early on in their life, the girls have certainly set a benchmark for millions of aspiring mountaineers.
What laurels did their feat bring them?
They have earned a place in the Guinness Book of World Records after climbing all 7 summits in the world. Previously, they achieved numerous 'World's First' tags in mountaineering. These include Mt Kilimanjaro (Africa) in Feb 2012, Mt Everest (Asia and world) on May 19, 2013, Mt Elbrus (Europe) in Aug 2013, Mt Aconcagua (S America) in Jan 2014, Mt Carstensz Pyramid (Australia) in March 2014 and Mt McKinley (N America) on June 4, 2014.
They also have the credit of conquering an unscaled, unnamed peak at 2,100 ft located in the Indian Himalayas on Aug 12, 2013.
What was their mother's response?
Their mother, Anju Malik, was previously scared to send them on the expedition. However, after their achievement, she stated: "My daughters have proved my fears wrong seven times over! Today, I myself feel much stronger, younger and bolder. I feel so elevated. Their feat is simply the most priceless gift for me."
Their father, Col VS Malik told dna: "Speechless with awe and pride at their courage, fortitude and single-minded pursuit of their dream. As a parent, all I can say is when our children start dreaming bigger and bolder than us, it is time to give ourselves a pat!"
What did the elated sisters say about their feat?
Tashi Malik expressed her happiness, saying: "Feel so fortunate to have parents' full support for such a dangerous mission. I have an amazing sense of fulfillment and pride on behalf of all girls who are denied equal opportunity to realize their potential."
Her twin Nungshi enthused: "The first thing I did with my sister upon reaching the summit, was to strike a steel plate with a spoon as a celebration, much like families in many parts of rural India do to celebrate and announce the birth of the male child."
What plans for the future?
They have set their mind on a new mission 'Unchaiyon Se Aage-Duniya Ki Haddon Tak' in order to complete the Explorers Grand Slam'. They will do this by skiing to the North and South poles. With generous sponsorship from Mahindra group and backed by Livguard, they will embark on the 'Last degree ski to South pole', covering a distance of 120 km from an 89-degree parallel.
They will carry their own loads including gear, rations and tents on sleds, braving strong winds and temperatures touching minus 130 degrees Celsius.
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