Giripremi’s Pune event for International Mountain Day showcased films portraying extraordinary mountaineering feats, including the first successful climb on Mount Meru’s western face and the groundbreaking expedition to Mount Sudarshan by Maharashtra’s women mountaineers. The program unveiled Umesh Zirpe’s ‘Himalayatil Divas,’ celebrating Himalayan experiences.
Colonel Anshuman Bhadoriya and Major Deval Bajpai from the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering praised Giripremi’s pivotal role in making Pune a mountaineering hub, acknowledging Zirpe’s exceptional leadership in the challenging Meru expedition.
The event recognized individuals and organizations dedicated to mountain conservation, applauding contributions from Madhukar Natu and entities like Swatantryaveer Savarkar Mandal Nigdi, Pimpri Chinchwad Mountaineering Club, Green Hills Group, and Eco Force Group.
The screening of short films depicting Mount Sudarshan and Mount Meru expeditions captivated the audience. Everest summiter Ganesh More delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks, acknowledging the tireless efforts of nature and mountain enthusiasts.
As part of the broader celebration, a short film focused on mountain and environmental conservation reached 27 Pune schools, extending to 50 schools throughout the week, educating students about preserving mountains and the environment in line with the spirit of International Mountain Day.
Some critics argue that the obsession with conquering extreme peaks may overshadow the environmental impact of such expeditions.
