Hari Budha Magar Keynote Speaker

Served for 15 years in the British Army’s legendary Gurkha regiment
First Double Above-Knee Amputee to Climb Everest
Motivational Speaker

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Hari Budha Magar's Biography

Hari Budha Magar, is an inspiring speaker and former Gurkha soldier, who joined the British Army via the Royal Gurkha Rifles at 19. Throughout his distinguished military career, Magar served across five continents, participating in various training and operational missions. His diverse roles included serving as a Combat Medic, Sniper, and specialist in Covert Surveillance.

While serving with the British Army in Afghanistan in 2010, Magar stepped on an improvised explosive device (IED). The unfortunate incident resulted in the loss of both legs above the knee and left him with multiple other injuries. However, demonstrating extraordinary resilience, Magar turned this life-altering incident into a journey of discovery and achievement.

Since his recovery, Magar has delved into various sports and adventurous activities, including golf, skiing, skydiving, kayaking, and rock climbing. He has also engaged in wheelchair rugby and wheelchair basketball. In addition to his diverse athletic pursuits, Magar has established a world record by becoming the first double above-knee amputee to summit a mountain over 6,000 meters.

As of May 2023, Hari Budha Magar added another remarkable feat to his list of accomplishments. He became the first and only ever double above-knee amputee to summit the world’s tallest mountain, Mount Everest.

Magar’s mountaineering journey includes successful ascents of Mount Everest (8,848m), Mont Blanc (4,810m), Chulu Far East (6,059m), Kilimanjaro (5,895m), and Mera Peak (6,476m). His ascent of Mera Peak in 2017 marked his entry into record books as the first double above-knee amputee to summit a mountain over 6,000 meters. The crowning achievement of this journey came on May 19, 2023, when Magar summited Mount Everest, reinforcing his place in history.

In 2017, Nepal banned solo, blind, and double amputee climbers from attempting Mount Everest, which came as a significant blow to Magar, who was already planning to climb the mountain. Viewing the ban as discriminatory, he championed a campaign against it, working tirelessly with disability organizations and supporters. This collective effort paid off in 2018 when the Supreme Court of Nepal overturned the ban.

In May 2023, Hari Budha Magar realized his ultimate goal by becoming the first double above-knee amputee to reach the peak of Mount Everest, thus adding another significant chapter to his inspiring tale of resilience, courage, and triumph.

Hari Budha Magar’s speaking ability transcends mere words; it’s a reflection of his life’s journey, marked by resilience, determination, and an unwavering spirit. Drawing from his personal experiences, he captivates audiences with stories of adversity and triumph, making his messages relatable and deeply impactful. His eloquence, combined with his genuine passion for advocacy and change, positions him as not just a speaker, but a storyteller and motivator. Whether discussing the legacy of the Gurkhas, the challenges faced by veterans, or the rights of the disabled, Hari’s voice resonates with authenticity and inspiration. In essence, his speaking ability is a powerful tool that drives change, challenges societal perceptions, and inspires countless individuals to believe in the power of possibility.

First double amputee reaches top of Mount Everest

Hari Budha Magar on his latest challenge

Veteran who lost both legs in Afghanistan plans to scale Everest | 5 News

Comments & Testimonials

Hari delivered an amazing keynote speech at the British Ex- Forces in Business Awards. His incredible achievements speak for themselves but the way he tells his story with such humility, while promoting a message which resonates with every person, is what really creates a connection with the audience. The two standing ovations, and multiple applauses throughout his speech, were clearly testament to just how well his keynote was received. Hari is a tremendously inspirational individual.

Ben Rossi, Director, Disruptive Media Group, Organiser of the British Ex- Forces in Business Awards

Thank you to Hari for his recent talk at Hastings Direct – the team were very inspired by Hari’s inspirational stories, delivered in such a way that was relevant to our organisation’s objectives, with lots of positive feedback and a real buzz around the room going on well into the evening. Hari has a very professional support team helping him to customise his presentations and talks and ensure that he is fully prepared and briefed to deliver on the day. We have already recommended Hari to speak at events with other business units internally.

Adam Malcolm, CEO, Hastings Financial Services Ltd part of Hastings Insurance

Hari delivered a really powerful and thought-provoking session for the National Grid People Team Offsite. It’s been an absolute delight to work with Hari and his team to tailor the session to make it as impactful as possible to the audience and the feedback we have received since has been incredibly positive. Thank you.

Anoushka Roberts, National Grid, People Team

Hari has immense presence - strong, authentic, humble. To hear his story and know he climbed to the highest point on Earth as the first double above-knee amputee is truly inspiring. The applause lifted the roof of the Royal Geographical Society auditorium. And he left us in no doubt that he will succeed in climbing his next Everest to campaign for people with disabilities around the world.

Rebecca Stephens MBE, Trustee Himalayan Trust commenting on Hari’s Speech at official Everest 70th Anniversary celebration at Royal Geographical Society