Prosthetic limbs do not limit this triple amputee

Shahin Bepari Lambe

Panaji: Tinkesh from Goa who became the world’s first triple amputee to scale the base camp of Mount Everest on May 11, 2024, continues to inspire others to take up challenges in life.

After accomplishing the extraordinary feat,  Tinkesh, who uses prosthetic limbs,   went on to start Tinkesh Ability Foundation (TAF), an organisation dedicated to helping the differently-abled get access to advanced mobility aids, prosthetics and mental health support.

TAF provides essential resources like crutches, wheelchairs and prosthetic limbs so that people with disabilities can live independent lives.

Tinkesh’s courage, inspiration and the tireless work that he undertakes for the differently-abled community were acknowledged in 2024 when he was honoured with the National Award for Personal Excellence in Shresht Divyangjan Category. The award was presented to him by President Droupadi Murmu.

Tinkesh’s journey to the extraordinary feat began with a tragedy during his childhood. Tinkesh lost both his limbs below knees and a hand following an electrocution accident when he was nine.

“I remember the day when I was flying a kite, which got stuck in an 11,000-volt high-tension line, just two feet above the terrace wall of my home,” Tinkesh recalled. “I shouted for help (when he got electrocuted), but nobody could hear me. I thought death was certain, but it didn’t occur.”

“I spent days in hospital, in severe pain, unable to even drink water. The physical and emotional suffering was unbearable. I remember the day I first realised that I had lost my arm. I remember the severe pain and high fever. I also remember the doctors amputating my right limb first and then my left. I remember seeing my parents in deep sorrow, but they never left me alone,” Tinkesh said.

Over time, he not only overcame the physical challenges but also the emotional scars left behind by the tragedy. “I regained my strength and began to dream again.” 

“My triumphs are not just for personal gain,” said Tinkesh, who has made it his mission to help others facing similar challenges.

However, despite running the Foundation, Tinkesh continues to face challenges in his life. “I haven’t been able to run for two years because my blades are ruined and need replacement,” he said adding that the new ones cost Rs 11 lakh, “but I can’t benefit from my own organisation”. Apart from providing mobility aids, TAF also organises inclusion treks and provides mental health support to differently-abled people.

“The aids we provide are of high quality and advanced, thus helping people with disabilities improve their daily lives, whether they are athletes or individuals looking at increasing their activity levels,” Tinkesh said. “We also provide follow-up support to ensure that everyone adjusts well to their new aids,” he said.