Bapi Debnath, known as Neel has carved his name in history as the third Indian and eighth global cyclist to reach the South Base Camp of Mount Everest on a bicycle.
This incredible feat, completed in 54 days, is not just a testament to endurance but a story of dedication and passion.
Neel, a cinematographer and editor residing in Kolkata, originally comes from Chandrapur in Agartala and is a proud alumnus of Umakanta Academy School in Tripura.
His journey began on May 21, 2024, from Kolkata with his single gear cycle. He meticulously planned his route, passing through significant landmarks like Varanasi, Ayodhya, Saloni Border, Kathmandu, Gurmi, and Namche Bazaar, finally reaching the South Base Camp on July 14.
Reflecting on his journey, Neel said, "I dedicated this journey to my father and started without the thought of setting any records. The realization of my achievement only came when officials at various checkpoints acknowledged my efforts."
His trip was fraught with challenges, navigating treacherous roads and managing with minimal gear—only a toolkit, spare tyre, and cycle spokes.
Neel's experiences during the expedition were diverse and enriching. "I mostly camped in my tent, cooking boiled food to avoid digestion issues caused by the weather," he shared. "In India, temples and roadside dhabas became my refuge, while in Kathmandu, the locals at Ram Mandir offered crucial support."
His return to Tengboche on July 15 marked the end of an extraordinary journey, but also the beginning of a new chapter in cycling history. Neel stands proud not only as a record-setter but also as an inspiration, showing that with determination and resilience, one can overcome any challenge.
Sri Lankan Navy arrests 32 Tamil fishermen, five boats seized
The Sri Lankan Navy has arrested 32 fishermen from Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu for allegedly crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) and fishing in Lankan waters.
Mann Ki Baat: PM Modi hails ISRO's century in rocket launches, urges people to dedicate a day for science
Addressing the 119th episode of his monthly radio programme, 'Mann Ki Baat', on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the Indian Space Research Organisation, saying it has hit the century in space. Last month, the country witnessed the ISRO's 100th rocket launch.
Mizoram student stabbed to death in Kerala, batchmate arrested
A 22-year-old BTech student from Mizoram was stabbed to death near his college in Thiruvananthapuram. The deceased, Valentine, was a student at Rajadhani Institute of Engineering & Technology, Nagaroor.
Italy PM slams Left's double standards, says when Trump, Meloni, Modi talk, they are called threat to democracy
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has accused left-wing politicians of being "nervous" over former US President Donald Trump's victory, claiming that conservatives are unfairly labelled as a "threat to democracy" while leftist leaders are celebrated for similar global alliances.
NDRF intensifies rescue operation to save 8 trapped in Telangana tunnel
National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams on Sunday intensified rescue efforts to save eight persons trapped in an under-construction tunnel after a portion of its roof collapsed in Telangana’s Nagarkurnool district on February 22.
Israel delays Palestinian prisoner release after 'humiliating' hostage handovers
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Sunday that the release of Palestinian prisoners would be delayed until Hamas ceases its "humiliating ceremonies" during the release of Israeli hostages under the ceasefire deal.
PM Modi on 3-day visit to MP, Bihar, Assam from today
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Madhya Pradesh, Bihar and Assam from February 23 to 25 to participate in several developmental projects and inaugurate business summits.
US senators call out China for 'weaponising' UN 1971 resolution, vow support to Taiwan
The United States Senators accused China of subverting United Nations Resolution 2758 in an attempt to isolate Taiwan. The senators proposed a resolution in the Senate reaffirming US support for Taiwan. The resolution opposes China's attempt to prevent Taiwan's meaningful participation in international organisations.