KalimNews, Kalimpong, 21 May 2024 : Dreams of Norden and Anuj came true when they finally reached Kedarnath in the midnight of the 40th day of their run and after 43 days of their start. They had to take rest for three days during their run.
The two youths of Jaldhaka, 27 years old Norden Tamang and 23 years old Anuj Sharma could not run but walk on their last day before reaching Kedarnath due to the huge crowd of devotees on their way of pilgrimage and heavy rain.
They almost had to crawl due to the slippery road and the crowd of men and women and mules carrying the old and the sick. On the last lap they were accompanied by the members of the Jaldhaka Runners and others of their native place.
After walking for about 16 hours on May 20, at midnight 12.00 am they stepped into the famous temple of Kedarnath Dham and cried with joy and cheers. They made some puja rituals to the Gods of their dream and rested for the night.
They had started their expedition from Jholung of Jaldhaka under Kalimpong District of the West Bengal state on 8 April, 2024 and finished it after 43 days.
Their route was through Chalsa, Siliguri and via Pani Tanki they entered into Nepal. Their run continued from Kakarbhitta via Birtamode, Hetauda, Kailali, Bardiya, Mahendranagar and entered into Uttarkhand. In Uttarkhand they ran via Bhimtal, Karnaprayag, Rudraprayag, Guptkashi, Gaurikund and finally to Kedarnath.
Their route was through Chalsa, Siliguri and via Pani Tanki they entered into Nepal. Their run continued from Kakarbhitta via Birtamode, Hetauda, Kailali, Bardiya, Mahendranagar and entered into Uttarkhand. In Uttarkhand they ran via Bhimtal, Karnaprayag, Rudraprayag, Guptkashi, Gaurikund and finally to Kedarnath.
A run of about 1750 km was completed by both Norden and Anuj though Anuj suffered heel and Norden had knee problem, it was not an obstacle and they didnot stop. Gopal Gurung, manager of Jaldhaka Runners has expressed gratitude to all the well wishers, contributors and those who encouraged the team through various means.
The team were received warmly by people of all walks of life including the defence and police forces and various clubs and associations in Nepal and India.
With a message “Stride towards wellness” and “Run for Health” both Anuj and Norden ran the run to encourage all especially the youths for a better healthy life through running. The significance of running in making small changes in our lifestyle, can take strides towards a healthier and happier life. They said in unison that everything is possible in life for everyone with determination and a definite goal.
Though they had less experience in the marathon and long run but that minimum experience helped them a lot in the long run and the whole expedition.