India Tribune Newsdesk

Chicago: In a remarkable feat that has made the Punjabi community proud across continents, sisters Harshdeep Kaur Benipal and Roopleen Kaur Benipal, originally from Ludhiana and now based in the United States, have successfully reached the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. The duo climbed up to Uhuru Peak, which stands at an elevation of 5,895 metres (19,340 feet) in Tanzania, marking a major milestone in their mountaineering journey.

Despite living abroad, the sisters continue to stay closely connected to their roots and traditions. Through their achievements, they have carried the spirit of Punjab and their cultural values onto an international stage, inspiring many young people from the community to aim high in life.

Their success was celebrated during a special felicitation ceremony held at their family residence in Dugri, where relatives, friends, and community members gathered to honour them. The event was hosted by their father, Kulwinder Singh Benipal, who shared that both daughters completed their schooling at Guru Nanak Public School in Ludhiana before moving to San Francisco for higher education. Over time, they settled in the United States but continued to pursue their passion for adventure and outdoor challenges.

According to their family, Harshdeep and Roopleen had always been bright students and showed a strong interest in trekking from a young age. Before conquering Kilimanjaro, they had already completed demanding expeditions, including a trek to Everest Base Camp and a successful climb of Grays Peak in North America.

Their mother, Karamjit Kaur Benipal, expressed immense happiness at their achievement, saying that although her daughters live far from India, they remain devoted to their heritage and values, proudly representing their culture wherever they go.

(With the input of The Tribune)