Madhu Sarda is a multifaceted individual, blending her roles as a seasoned mountaineer, accomplished artist, motivational speaker, author and yoga instructor. She spoke to Kristian Harrison about her journey, which has spanned across five continents and peaks above 5,000 meters, and her relentless pursuit of adventure and self-discovery.
Born in Nepal, Ms. Sarda’s fascination with mountaineering began early, inspired by the majestic Himalayas she viewed from her hometown of Biratnagar. “From a young age, taking flights from Biratnagar to Kathmandu, I was fascinated by the beauty and challenge of the Himalayas,” she reflects. However, it wasn’t until 2018, with encouragement from Michelin Star Chef Vineet Bhatia, also a popular restaurateur in Bahrain, that she seriously took up the challenge. In her words: “Each climb is a journey not just to the summit, but also within oneself, testing physical endurance, mental strength and resilience.”
Ms. Sarda’s most memorable mountaineering feats includes conquering Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. “As I set out on the summit push, the biting cold pierced through me like needles, making me question if I had what it takes to continue,” she recounts. Her mantra of tackling one hour at a time eventually saw her reach the summit after 12 gruelling hours.
As an artist, Ms. Sarda’s creativity enriches both her mountaineering and her motivational talks. “In mountaineering, creativity manifests in perception and appreciation of nature’s intricate details, while in my talks, it enriches storytelling and engagement,” she explains.
Her art has been showcased in esteemed venues like Bahrain Financial Harbour and the Colour of the East Art Gallery, and she has adorned spaces with murals for numerous establishments in the Kingdom. Her passion for giving back is evident in her work with autistic children and underprivileged kids in Bahrain and Nepal through art therapy and education. She’s also conducted numerous art workshops, sharing her expertise in Madhubani and Mandala paintings.
Additionally, as a certified yoga instructor, she integrates yoga and meditation into her trekking expeditions to maintain physical and mental well-being. “Yoga improves core strength and flexibility, which aids in climbing. It also helps with muscle recovery and injury prevention,” she notes.
Living in Bahrain, Ms. Sarda maintains her connection with nature and adventure by exploring local beaches, swimming, and engaging in outdoor sports. She also joins local active outdoor groups like Bahrain Hikes and plans trips to neighbouring countries to satisfy her adventurous spirit.
As a motivational speaker, Ms. Sarda leverages her platform to inspire others to pursue their passions and live fulfilling lives. She shares personal stories of challenges and triumphs, providing practical advice for setting goals and overcoming obstacles. “My aim is to motivate people to believe in themselves, embrace their passions, and pursue their dreams with unwavering commitment,” she emphasises. Her favourite speaking engagements include sessions at St. Christopher’s School in Bahrain, where the enthusiasm and curiosity of children make the experience particularly rewarding.
Ms. Sarda is also an author, with three published books: Everest in My Heart (2020), Manifesting Mountains (2022) and Moon Mountain (2023). These works offer readers a captivating journey through her mountaineering expeditions, intertwined with powerful lessons on overcoming challenges and embracing passion. Recognising the gender disparity in fields like mountaineering, her works champion diversity and inclusivity, striving to create a more empowering environment for all individuals to pursue their passions.
Finally, in her commitment to sustainability, Ms. Sarda practices Green Project Management (PMO) principles, promoting responsible practices to minimise environmental impact. “By prioritising sustainability in mountaineering endeavours, we can protect natural habitats, ensure the long-term viability of mountain ecosystems, and foster a deeper appreciation for nature among enthusiasts,” she concludes.
