Gemini Ganesan’s Granddaughter Dr. Priya Selvaraj Summits Mount Everest at 52
Chennai: Dr. Priya Selvaraj, Senior Reproductive Medicine Specialist and Director of GG Hospital, Chennai, has successfully summited Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak, on May 27, 2026, at 10:00 AM.
The 52-year-old doctor achieved the feat after months of intensive preparation, training and perseverance. Earlier, she had also successfully climbed Manaslu, which stands at 8,163 metres.
According to information released, Dr. Priya is the only Indian woman above the age of 50 known to have summited two peaks higher than 8,000 metres within a span of seven months.
For more than 25 years, Dr. Priya has been working in the field of reproductive medicine, helping thousands of families pursue parenthood. Her Everest expedition reflects the determination and commitment that have marked her professional career.
Reflecting on the achievement, Dr. Priya Selvaraj said, “Everest was the destination, but the real test of integrity lay in the journey.”
She noted that balancing a demanding medical practice, leadership responsibilities, family commitments and a rigorous training schedule was a significant challenge throughout the expedition.
“As a healthcare professional, training doesn’t happen in ideal conditions. It’s built between responsibilities, long days and mental fatigue. There’s no perfect terrain to prepare for this either. I relied on my coach. I relied on my mind and body. And above all, I relied on trust in the process,” she said.
Dr. Priya undertook the Everest expedition with Elite Exped, founded by mountaineer Nirmal Purja, and was guided by experienced high-altitude guide Anup Gurung.
Her preparation programme was led by fitness coach Dr. Sugapradeep, a dentist, national athlete and strength and conditioning specialist. He had previously trained her for expeditions including Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m), Everest Base Camp, Lobuche East (6,119m) and Manaslu (8,163m).
Dr. Priya said she hopes her journey will encourage others to pursue ambitious goals regardless of age or circumstances.
“Everest, true to its might, tests every ounce of your willpower, determination and strength. However, once you summit, you remain changed forever,” she said.
Dr. Priya Selvaraj is the daughter of noted fertility specialist Dr. Kamala Selvaraj and the granddaughter of legendary actor Gemini Ganesan. Alongside her medical career, she has continued to pursue mountaineering and endurance challenges.
