Hari Budha Magar, a former Gurkha soldier from Nepal who served in the British Army for 15 years, faced a life-altering event when he lost both his legs in an IED blast in Afghanistan back in 2010.
Rather than succumb to his personal tragedy, Hari has made it his life’s mission to motivate others that overcoming obstacles is achievable, regardless of the challenges one encounters.
Setting a remarkable example, the 46-year-old Hari became the first above-the-knee amputee to conquer Mount Everest. He is now just two peaks away from accomplishing the feat of scaling the highest summit on each of the seven continents by January 2026.
Receiving a Special Recognition Award at the prestigious Daily Mirror’s Pride of Britain Awards was a moment of immense joy for Hari. Reflecting on the honor, he expressed his delight and emphasized his primary goal of mountain climbing to raise awareness about disabilities.
Despite his extensive global mountain climbing expeditions, Hari had never embarked on a cruise ship journey until recently. Partnering with the awards, P&O Cruises surprised all winners, including Hari, with a cruise vacation.
Excitedly, Hari, a married father of three children aged 12 to 29, shared that the cruise was a family affair, providing them with a novel experience. Sailing to the Norwegian Fjords aboard the Iona cruise ship in the spring, the family relished a week exploring the majestic landscapes and activities offered on the ship.
Thrilled by the opportunity to explore the stunning Norwegian scenery, the family indulged in adventures like riding the Loen Skylift to Mount Hoven, savoring panoramic views of Nordfjord. Hari particularly enjoyed the train journey to Olden, a picturesque village known for its lush valleys and glaciers, offering ideal accessibility for individuals with mobility issues.
The family also made the most of onboard amenities such as cinemas, swimming pools, and spas, creating lasting memories during the Celebration Night event. Hari cherished celebrating his daughter’s birthday with a special family dinner and a six-course meal at Epicurean onboard.
Eager to give back, Hari shared his inspirational journey with fellow passengers, receiving overwhelming support and admiration. Reflecting on his cruise experience, Hari highlighted the ship’s wheelchair accessibility and the warm hospitality of the crew, encouraging others facing similar challenges to embark on a cruise without hesitation.
Expressing his delight with the inclusive atmosphere on board, Hari looks forward to planning future cruise holidays, emphasizing the importance of being open to seeking assistance and embracing new opportunities for unforgettable experiences.