Hari Budha Magar, a Gurkha from Nepal who served in the British Army for 15 years, faced the loss of both his legs in an IED blast in Afghanistan in 2010. Instead of dwelling on his personal tragedy, Hari’s focus has been on motivating others that no challenge is insurmountable in life.
Leading by example, the 46-year-old Hari became the first above-the-knee amputee to conquer Everest and aims to scale the highest peaks on all seven continents by January 2026, with just two mountains left to go. His recognition at the Daily Mirror’s Pride of Britain Awards was a moment of immense pride for him, emphasizing his commitment to mountain climbing and raising awareness about disabilities.
Although Hari had embarked on mountain expeditions worldwide, he had never experienced a cruise voyage. However, P&O Cruises, the new headline sponsor of the awards, surprised all winners with a cruise vacation. Hari, a father of three children aged 12 to 29, expressed his delight at the unexpected family holiday, marking their maiden cruise experience.
Sailing to the Norwegian Fjords aboard the Iona in spring, the family savored a week of shore explorations and ship activities. Hari shared their joy in discovering new ways to appreciate the breathtaking landscapes of mountains, glaciers, and fjords, including a memorable ride on the Loen Skylift to Mount Hoven.
Reflecting on their cruise adventure, Hari praised the accessibility of the ship, ensuring a seamless experience for him as a wheelchair user. Encouraging others in similar situations to embark on a cruise, he highlighted the friendly environment and the willingness of people to assist, emphasizing the importance of asking for help and staying positive.