Vishwanath Karthikey Padakanti, an India Book of Records record holder from
Hyderabad, has marked his name in history by becoming the youngest Indian – and the
second youngest in the world – to complete the prestigious Seven Summits Challenge. This
achievement earned him the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2025, conferred by
President Droupadi Murmu at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, on December 27, 2025. He was
honoured under the sports category, with his feat celebrated as a symbol of courage,
endurance, and determination.
Born on October 30, 2008, Vishwanath grew up in Hyderabad, Telangana, where his
fascination with adventure gradually transformed into a passion for mountaineering. His
journey is remarkable not only because of the sheer physical demands of climbing the
world’s tallest peaks but also because he accomplished this feat at an age when most
teenagers are still discovering their interests.
The Seven Summits Challenge is considered one of the most prestigious accomplishments
in global mountaineering. It involves scaling the highest peak on each continent: Mount
Elbrus (Europe), Mount Kilimanjaro (Africa), Mount Kosciuszko (Australia), Mount Denali
(North America), Vinson Massif (Antarctica), Mount Aconcagua (South America), and Mount
Everest (Asia). Vishwanath began his journey with Mount Elbrus in August 2022 and
completed the challenge on May 27, 2025, when he reached the summit of Mount Everest
at just 16 years, 6 months, and 27 days.
India Book of Records recognised him as the youngest Indian to climb the Seven Summits
of different continents. This record highlights not only his physical endurance but also his
ability to adapt to diverse terrains and climates – from the icy wilderness of Antarctica to the
thin air of the Himalayas. His Everest climb demanded immense preparation, discipline, and
resilience. Surviving on minimal food, sometimes relying on chocolates, and enduring
extreme weather conditions, he demonstrated grit and perseverance far beyond his years.
The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP) is conferred upon children aged 3
to 18 years who display exceptional abilities and outstanding achievements across various
fields. In 2025, the honour was awarded to 20 children, including two posthumously, from
across the country. Vishwanath’s story is a beacon of inspiration for India’s youth, and his
journey from Hyderabad to the summits of the world stands as a powerful reminder that
dreams, when pursued with passion and determination, can indeed touch the sky.
