Hari Budha Magar, a Gurkha hailing from Nepal with a 15-year service record in the British Army, suffered the loss of both his legs in an IED blast in Afghanistan in 2010. Instead of being consumed by his own adversity, Hari has dedicated himself to motivating others that overcoming challenges is within reach, regardless of life’s obstacles.
Leading by example, Hari, aged 46, made history as the first above-the-knee amputee to conquer Mount Everest and is now just two summits away from achieving the unprecedented feat of scaling the highest peaks on all seven continents, aiming to accomplish this by January 2026. His Special Recognition Award win at the Daily Mirror’s Pride of Britain Awards brought him immense joy and honor.
Expressing his delight, Hari said, “I was absolutely delighted. It was such an honor. I just wanted to climb mountains and raise awareness about disability.” Despite his global mountain-scaling ventures, Hari had never ventured on a cruise ship until P&O Cruises, the new primary sponsor of the awards, surprised all winners with a cruise vacation.
Thrilled by the unexpected gesture, Hari, a married father of three children aged 12 to 29, reflected on the family-oriented cruise experience. Sailing to the Norwegian Fjords aboard the Iona in spring, the family relished a week exploring ashore and indulging in the ship’s offerings.
Hari shared, “We had never been on a cruise holiday before. I’m very busy going everywhere, so it was perfect for us to spend time together and do things we’ve never done before.” The family embraced novel ways to witness the breathtaking landscapes of mountains, glaciers, and fjords, reveling in shared activities.
A standout moment for Hari was ascending Mount Hoven near Olden via the Loen Skylift, one of the world’s steepest cable cars, offering panoramic views across Nordfjord. The family also cherished a train journey to the picturesque village of Olden, known for its natural splendor, providing accessible exploration options.
Onboard, the family savored diverse ship amenities like the cinema, swimming pools, and whirlpool spa, culminating in a memorable Celebration Night. Hari recounted a special family dinner arranged by P&O Cruises for his daughter’s birthday, complete with a six-course meal and a birthday cake.
Eager to give back, Hari shared his inspirational journey with fellow passengers aboard the Iona. Reflecting on his sea adventure, he expressed a newfound appreciation for cruising and hopes to plan future voyages. Praise for the ship’s accessibility and the warmth of the crew, Hari encouraged others to embark on similar journeys, emphasizing the importance of seeking assistance and embracing positivity throughout the experience.