Indian Mount Everest Expedition
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | August 15, 1965 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | INR 0.15 |
| Quantity | 2000000 |
| Perforation | comb 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Purple |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 389 Stamp Number IN 404 Yvert et Tellier IN 190 Stanley Gibbons IN 503 |
| Themes | Expeditions | Mountain Climbing | Sports | |
The Indian Posts and Telegraphs Department is set to release a special commemorative stamp on August 15, 1965, to honor the remarkable achievement of the Indian Mount Everest Expedition. This date coincides with the 18th anniversary of India’s independence, adding significance to the occasion.
The expedition, consisting of nineteen members, achieved a historic feat by successfully reaching the summit of Mount Everest, standing at an impressive height of 29,028 feet. Led by Lt. Cdr. M.S. Kohli, the team’s perseverance and determination resulted in nine members reaching the summit in four successive attempts made within ten days in May of that year.
The success of the expedition brought immense pride to India and earned the country a revered place in the international mountaineering community. The efforts of all those involved, including the expedition members, high altitude Sherpas, Nepalese porters, and various establishments in India that supported the endeavor, were crucial to the achievement.
Since the discovery of Mount Everest as the world’s highest peak in 1852, numerous expeditions have been undertaken to conquer its summit. India’s involvement in mountaineering expeditions dates back to the 1960s, with the third Indian Expedition marking a significant milestone in the country’s mountaineering history.
Despite facing challenges such as adverse weather conditions and treacherous terrain, the Indian Expedition persevered and achieved remarkable success. Notably, the expedition became the first all-Indian team to reach the summit, with members such as Capt. A.S. Cheema, Nawang Gombu, Sonam Gyasto, Sonam Wengyal, C.P. Vohra, Ang Kami, Capt. H.P.S. Ahulwalia, H.C.S. Rawat, and Phu Deorji making notable contributions to this historic feat.
The expedition’s success on May 29, 1965, exactly 12 years after the first ascent of Everest, marked a significant moment in India’s mountaineering history and serves as a testament to the spirit of adventure, perseverance, and determination of the Indian mountaineers.