SRINAGAR: The global mountaineering community is mourning the loss of legendary Nepali climber Nirmal “Nimsdai” Purja, who was officially confirmed dead following a devastating avalanche on Broad Peak (8,047 metres), the world’s twelfth-highest mountain.
Purja, along with five other climbers, had been reported missing after an avalanche swept across the mountain’s standard West Ridge route on Friday. Search efforts continued amid difficult weather conditions before the tragic news was confirmed by Elite Exped, the expedition company founded by Purja.
“Today, it is with profound sadness and immense heartbreak that we confirm that Nirmal ‘Nimsdai’ Purja tragically lost his life following the avalanche on Broad Peak,” the company said in an official statement.
Elite Exped also confirmed the deaths of Purja’s trusted companions and guides, Pur Bahadur Gurung, widely known as Yukta, and Nima Sherpa.
Located in the Karakoram mountain range near K2, Broad Peak straddles the border between Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region and China’s Xinjiang province. According to reports, the avalanche struck at an altitude of approximately 21,600 to 21,850 feet.
The company described Purja as a visionary whose achievements transcended the world of mountaineering.
“The world has lost one of mountaineering’s greatest climbers; a leader who inspired millions through his courage, humility and unwavering belief that human potential is far greater than we often imagine,” the statement said.
Tributes from across the world poured in as fellow climbers, adventurers and political leaders expressed their grief.
Legendary Italian mountaineer Reinhold Messner wrote, “Nims chose his own path with courage and passion. What remains is not only the sorrow of his passing, but the memory of a life truly lived.”
British adventurer Bear Grylls also paid tribute, saying, “Heart-breaking news for so many climbers around the world who had a friendship with this remarkable and unique man. We will never forget you, Nims, and your unstoppable spirit.”
Nepal’s Prime Minister also extended his condolences, describing Purja’s death as a tragic loss for the nation and the global climbing community.
Purja, a former member of Britain’s Brigade of Gurkhas and the elite Special Boat Service (SBS), transformed modern high-altitude mountaineering through a series of extraordinary achievements. In 2019, he completed the historic “Project Possible” expedition by climbing all 14 mountains above 8,000 metres in an astonishing six months and six days, shattering the previous record.
He was also a key member of the team that achieved the first successful winter ascent of K2 in 2021, a feat long considered one of mountaineering’s greatest challenges.
Beyond his records, Purja became a symbol of determination, resilience and ambition, inspiring a new generation of climbers around the world.
His death marks the end of an era, but his legacy will continue to inspire those who dare to push beyond the limits of human endurance.
