Hari Budha Magar, a Gurkha hailing from Nepal who served in the British Army for 15 years, lost both his legs in an IED blast in Afghanistan back in 2010. Instead of focusing on his own challenges, Hari’s primary goal has been to motivate others that achieving the impossible is within reach, regardless of life’s obstacles.
Leading by example, Hari, aged 46, became the first above-the-knee amputee to conquer Mount Everest. He is now just two summits away from completing the feat of scaling the highest peaks on all seven continents, aiming to finish by January 2026. His accomplishment was recognized with a Special Recognition Award at the Daily Mirror’s Pride of Britain Awards, an honor that filled him with delight and gratitude.
Expressing his excitement, Hari shared, “I was absolutely thrilled. It was a true privilege. I simply aspired to climb mountains and raise awareness about disabilities.” Although Hari has explored numerous mountains worldwide, he had never experienced a cruise ship voyage until now.
P&O Cruises, the new headline sponsor of the awards, surprised all winners, including Hari, with a cruise holiday for their families. Reflecting on the unexpected adventure, Hari, a devoted father of three, remarked, “It was truly amazing and something I never anticipated. The holiday wasn’t just for me, but for the entire family. We had never been on a cruise before, and it provided us with a perfect opportunity to spend quality time together and engage in new experiences.”
Embarking on a journey to the Norwegian Fjords aboard the Iona in spring, Hari’s family savored a week exploring the stunning landscapes ashore and indulging in the ship’s amenities. Hari shared his delight at the abundance of time spent on land, including activities like riding the Loen Skylift to Mount Hoven, offering breathtaking views of Nordfjord and enjoying the snowfall at the peak.
The family also relished traveling by train to Olden, a picturesque fjord village renowned for its natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for those with mobility challenges. Hari highlighted the ship’s facilities like the cinema, swimming pools, and whirlpool spa, culminating in a memorable Celebration Night where guests dressed up for the occasion.
A standout moment for Hari was celebrating his daughter’s birthday with a special family dinner at Epicurean, featuring a lavish six-course meal and a birthday cake. Eager to share his inspiring journey, Hari delivered a talk onboard Iona, engaging with guests who were keen to hear his story.
Despite his mountain background, Hari discovered a newfound love for the sea and expressed interest in planning future cruise holidays. Commending the ship’s accessibility and friendly atmosphere, Hari encouraged others facing similar challenges to embark on a cruise, emphasizing the importance of seeking help and remaining positive throughout the journey.