Determination is above caste and comfortability

In a country of over a billion people, where dreams are often crushed by poverty and social barriers, Malavath Purna’s story shines as a symbol of courage and possibility. Born in 2000 in the remote village of Pakala in Telangana, she came from a poor tribal family that relied on agricultural labor to survive. Her early life was shaped by poverty, gender bias, and a lack of access to education. However, things changed when she joined a social welfare residential school under the Telangana Social Welfare Residential Educational Institutions Society (TSWREIS), led by Dr. R.S. Praveen Kumar. It was here that she discovered mountaineering, and her determination and natural ability quickly stood out.

After rigorous training, Purna was selected to scale the world’s highest peak. On May 25, 2014, at just 13 years and 11 months, she reached the summit of Mount Everest, becoming the youngest girl in the world to do so. Her climb was not just a physical achievement, but a powerful statement against the limitations imposed by poverty and gender. Despite facing dangerous conditions like freezing temperatures and altitude sickness, she reached the top and proudly unfurled the Indian flag. Her inspiring journey was later turned into a biographical film titled “Poorna”, directed by Rahul Bose. Purna has since continued her education and become a motivational figure for youth across the country.

Today, Malavath Purna is on a mission to complete the Seven Summits, climbing the highest peaks on all seven continents. She has already conquered Mount Elbrus (Europe), Mount Kilimanjaro (Africa), Mount Aconcagua (South America), Mount Kosciuszko (Australia), Mount Denali (North America), and Mount Vinson (Antarctica). She has been honored by the President of India, spoken at global platforms like the United Nations, and continues to promote education, gender equality, and self-belief, especially among tribal and rural girls. Purna is more than just a mountaineer — she is a beacon of hope, showing that with opportunity, determination, and courage, even the most unlikely dreams can come true.