Former Delhi High Court Judge Embarks on Everest Base Camp Adventure at 64
In a remarkable display of determination and spontaneity, Justice Poonam A Bamba, who retired from the Delhi High Court in August 2023, has completed an arduous trek to the Mount Everest Base Camp at the age of 64. The former judge, whose career spanned over two decades in the judiciary, undertook this challenging journey last November, covering more than 65 kilometers across some of the world's most demanding terrain.
A Spontaneous Decision That Led to Adventure
"It was a totally spontaneous plan," chuckles Bamba, recalling how the idea materialized. "My husband was going on the trek. I wasn't even going to go initially. I remember thinking, 'how did this idea get into this man's head?' He was getting frantic as the trek date got closer. He was calling up his friends... eventually, only one person agreed to accompany him. I thought to myself if he can go at the age of 66, why can't I? This was never ever on my bucket list."
Her husband, Anil Bamba, a former bureaucrat who retired in 2019 as Chairperson of the Land Ports Authority of India under the Ministry of Home Affairs, has traveled to approximately 100 countries. "He planned and I accompanied him... we went as the river flows. We did it for joy, not to show off to anyone," says the former judge, emphasizing their shared philosophy of spontaneity. "We've lost spontaneity. People plan too much. Spontaneity is my mantra," she adds.
The Grueling Journey Through Nepal's Wilderness
Over ten days in November, Bamba walked nearly eight hours daily, navigating:
- Suspension bridges swaying high above river valleys
- Dense, unending forests that tested her courage
- Unforgiving mountainous terrain that slowed progress
- Bone-chilling cold that penetrated multiple layers of clothing
Despite her regular morning walks of 6 kilometers and gym sessions, Bamba admits she didn't undertake extensive preparation for the expedition. "...my friend told me you're taking it very lightly," she recalls. "I believe something like this has more to do with your mind and mental makeup."
For the journey that began from Lukla in Nepal, Bamba packed essentials including:
- Woolen socks and warm waterproof pants
- Multiple layers of inners and a jacket
- Anti-glare glasses and protective caps
- Nutritional supplies like nuts and toffees
- A comprehensive first aid kit with heat tablets for feet
Overcoming Challenges with Simple Wisdom
The expedition presented multiple ordeals, including navigating dense forests that initially frightened the former judge. "I got scared at that time. But I said to myself — guide saath hai to le hi jaayega (the guide will take us)," she remembers.
As the trio—Bamba, her husband, and their friend—progressed, they faced the sudden darkness of mountain evenings and altitude effects that diminished appetite. "We would order food but couldn't eat anything. Mostly, we had warm soup. One doesn't feel much hunger at such a high altitude," Bamba explains.
When the terrain became particularly challenging, Bamba relied on a simple mantra: "One step at a time." This philosophy kept her moving forward through the most difficult segments of the journey.
Memorable Moments and Profound Realizations
Asked about her most memorable experience from the trek, Bamba highlights crossing suspension bridges. "I halted to catch my breath. I just looked up and there was a massive glacier... It was so beautiful that I started sobbing."
The journey provided profound philosophical insights for the former judge. "When you're amidst nature, you truly realise that you're not even a speck in this humongous universe. But conversely, you also feel expanded... as a part of it," she reflects, describing how the experience transformed her perspective on existence and human scale.
From Courtroom to Mountain Trails: A Distinguished Career
Before her adventurous retirement chapter, Justice Poonam Bamba built an impressive legal career:
- Graduated from Hansraj College in 1980
- Completed LL.B in 1983 and LL.M in 1988 from Delhi University's Faculty of Law
- Practiced as an advocate in Delhi from 1983 to 1987
- Joined Delhi Higher Judicial Service in December 2002
- Served as District & Sessions Judge in various districts for approximately five years
- Elevated as permanent judge of Delhi High Court in March 2022
- Retired in August 2023 after 19 years in judicial service
Her transition from weighing legal arguments in courtrooms to navigating suspension bridges in the Himalayas demonstrates that retirement can mark the beginning of new adventures rather than an end to active life. At 64, Justice Poonam Bamba has proven that age is merely a number when coupled with determination, spontaneity, and the courage to embrace unexpected challenges.
