Hari Budha Magar, a Gurkha hailing from Nepal who served in the British Army for 15 years, faced the loss of both his legs in a devastating IED explosion in Afghanistan back in 2010.
Despite enduring such hardships, Hari has dedicated himself to inspiring others with the belief that any obstacle can be overcome, regardless of life’s challenges. Leading by example, the 46-year-old became the first above-the-knee amputee to conquer Everest and is now on a mission to scale the highest peaks on all seven continents by January 2026.
Receiving a Special Recognition Award at the Daily Mirror’s Pride of Britain Awards was a moment of immense joy for Hari. He expressed his gratitude, stating, “I was absolutely delighted. It was such an honor. I just wanted to climb mountains and raise awareness about disability.”
Having traversed mountains across the globe, Hari embarked on a new adventure by experiencing his first cruise holiday courtesy of P&O Cruises, the awards’ new headline partner. The surprise cruise trip, not just for him but for his entire family, offered a unique opportunity to bond and engage in novel experiences.
Navigating the Norwegian Fjords aboard the Iona in spring, Hari and his family relished a week exploring the breathtaking landscapes and activities offered by the cruise. From riding the Loen Skylift to savoring the scenic views atop Mount Hoven to exploring the village of Olden, the family found joy in discovering new ways to appreciate nature’s beauty.
Reflecting on the cruise experience, Hari shared his delight in partaking in various ship amenities, including cinema screenings, swimming pools, and a whirlpool spa. He particularly cherished celebrating his daughter’s birthday with a special family dinner at Epicurean on board, where they were treated to a lavish six-course meal and a birthday cake.
Eager to give back, Hari also shared his inspirational journey with fellow passengers on the ship, receiving overwhelming support and interest from those onboard. Enthused by the inclusive and accessible nature of the cruise ship, Hari encourages others facing similar challenges to embark on a cruise holiday, emphasizing the welcoming environment and the willingness of people to offer assistance.
Enthused by his maritime experience, Hari expressed his desire to plan future cruise holidays, highlighting the accessibility and warmth he encountered during his time at sea. Encouraging others to embrace new adventures, he concluded, “Once you start, you always find a way. People were really friendly. I would say be nice, ask for help, and you’ll be fine.”
