Right from when they got married in 2008, this couple, both in the Maharashtra Police, dreamt of together ascending Mt. Everest, the tallest peak in the world, and even delayed becoming parents till they achieved their aim - which finally happened on May 23.
Dinesh and Tarakeshwari Rathod, both Maharashtra Police constables, also became the first couple to reach the summit of Everest - a feat they accomplished a few days after constable Rafiq Shaikh, of Aurangabad, became the first Maharashtra policeman to reach the top of the world.
Addressing a press conference to apprise media of their feat, the two, known as the "adventure couple" in Maharashtra Police, said that they became the first Indian couple and first security personnel couple to reach the top of Mt Everest.
Our dreams have come true, said the couple who tied the knot in 2008 and added that this was the dream they had since then.
More From This Section
"We committed that we will not give birth to a child until we climb Mt Everest, said Rathod, adding that they were immensely pleased to achieve their goal and happy to share the news with the rest of the world.
Tarakeshwari also said that they had even put off their plan to become parents. "With pride now, we want to become parents," she said, and cited their "love and dedication afforded by my husband" for accomplishing their cherished goal.
Rathod however said that they were really saddened after hearing that three Indian nationals lost their lives in the climb, but once they reached at the top themselves, they were overjoyed.
Three Indian nationals from West Bengal were killed during their attempt to ascend the Everest this season.
The Rathods, both aged 30 years old, entered in police service in 2006. Before this, they had climbed the highest peak of Australia and other peaks and conducted several adventure sky diving and other mountain related expeditions.
Along with the Indian couple, two Nepali Sherpas, Furba and Fushemba, also reached the top of Everest. The trip was organised by Makalu Adventure.
Over 70 Indian nationals have successfully climbed Mt Everest this season.
Mohan Lamsal of Makalu Adventure said that such kind of attempts will help trust between the people of Nepal and India.
The couple took permission to climb Everest in 2015 but due to the earthquake, postponed their plan.
--IANS
giri/vd