Kanchha Sherpa, the last surviving member of the historic 1953 Mount Everest expedition, has passed away at the age of 92, marking the end of an era in mountaineering history.
As a key figure in the 35-member team, Kanchha played an essential role in the first successful ascent of the world's tallest peak alongside Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay.
At just 19 years old during the momentous climb, he provided vital support that contributed to the team's extraordinary achievement on May 29, 1953.
Known for his lifelong dedication as a mountain guide, Kanchha Sherpa not only influenced numerous climbs in the Himalayas but became a symbol of Sherpa heritage and resilience.
His passing is seen as a profound loss, with tributes expressing that his death signifies the departure of a last link to a transformative chapter in mountaineering history.
Kanchha's legacy endures as a testament to the spirit of adventure and the collaborative effort that defined one of humanity's greatest feats.