PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, June 6: Mohan Rawat, senior instructor at the Tata Steel Adventure Foundation (TSAF), has etched his name into mountaineering history by successfully summiting Mount Everest — the world’s highest peak — on May 18.
This remarkable feat reinforces TSAF’s legacy of nurturing world-class climbers and promoting adventure as a tool for transformation.
Following his triumphant ascent, Rawat returned to India on May 26, spent time with his family in Uttarakhand, and arrived in Jamshedpur on June 4.
A warm felicitation ceremony was held at the JRD Tata Sports Complex, graced by D. B. Sundara Ramam, Vice President (Corporate Services), Tata Steel and Chairman, TSAF, along with senior leadership, cadets, and adventure enthusiasts.
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This achievement marks a significant milestone for TSAF — Rawat became the 13th Everest summiteer nurtured by the foundation since Bachendri Pal’s historic climb in 1984.
Sharing his story from humble beginnings in Agora village, Uttarkashi, Rawat spoke about the challenges, sacrifices, and discipline that shaped his mountaineering journey. “I have always worked hard without expecting anything in return. When the opportunity came, I gave it everything I had,” he said.
From running a small Maggi shop for trekkers to guiding outdoor leadership programs in the Himalayas, Rawat’s life reflects quiet determination and undying love for the mountains. With over two decades at TSAF, he has led numerous expeditions and holds certifications in mountaineering, rafting, and skiing.
TSAF: Building Mountains of Potential
Congratulating Rawat, D. B. Sundara Ramam expressed immense pride: “Mohan Rawat’s successful Everest summit is a moment of immense pride for TSAF. His journey from a small village in Uttarkashi to the world’s highest peak reflects the grit, discipline, and spirit of adventure we aim to foster. It’s a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with perseverance and purpose.”
Ramam added that Rawat’s ascent underscores TSAF’s mission of empowering grassroots talent and exploring human potential through outdoor challenges.
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Climbing Everest: The Final Push
Rawat began his expedition on April 10, 2025, flying to Nepal and enduring initial permit delays. He reached Everest Base Camp on May 3, trekking through the iconic Khumbu Valley. For acclimatisation, he summited Mt. Lobuche East (20,075 ft) on May 2.
His summit rotation began on May 8, progressing through Camps 1, 2, and 3. The final push commenced on May 14, culminating in his summit from Camp 4 (South Col, 26,400 ft) in the early hours of May 18. He spent about 15 minutes on the summit before beginning his descent, accompanied by veteran Sherpa Lhakpa Sherpa and supported by Asian Trekking, a reputed Nepal-based outfitter.
Rawat returned to Base Camp on May 19 and to Kathmandu by May 24.
A Veteran with Many Summits Behind Him
In addition to Everest, Rawat has climbed numerous challenging peaks including Jogin I & III, Bhagirathi II, Chamser and Lungser Kangri, Stok Kangri, Kang Yatse I & II, and Mt. Kanamo, among others. He was part of Mission Gange (2018) flagged off by the Prime Minister and the Trans-Himalayan Expedition (2022) led by Bachendri Pal, covering 4,841 km across 35 mountain passes.
To prepare for Everest, Rawat underwent intense physical and technical training, including high-altitude treks, winter survival sessions in Leh, and the grueling Triple Pass Challenge (Darwa – Bali – Borasu).
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The Summit Beyond the Summit
Beyond the physical summit, Rawat’s achievement stands as a symbol of unwavering spirit and the boundless possibilities that emerge when opportunity meets preparation. His journey is an inspiration to aspiring adventurers across the country and a testament to TSAF’s continued commitment to exploration, endurance, and empowerment.
