Bungee jumping is an exhilarating adventure sport that draws thrill-seekers eager to experience the rush of freefalling from significant heights, such as bridges, cranes, or cliffs, while securely attached to an elastic cord that ensures their safety. Typically pursued by able-bodied individuals, this activity recently saw a groundbreaking achievement in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, where a man in a wheelchair defied all odds to complete India’s highest bungee jump, plunging from a height of 117 meters. The daring feat was captured on camera and rapidly spread across social media platforms, earning widespread praise and recognition.
In a video shared by Instagram user @himalayanbungy, the awe-inspiring moment is vividly documented. The clip shows the crew meticulously fastening the man, who is paralysed and wheelchair-bound, into a secure harness. After thorough safety checks, the team gently pushes his wheelchair off the platform, sending him into an exhilarating freefall.
The video concludes with the man expressing uncontainable joy and pride, celebrating his achievement. The caption alongside the video proclaims, "Overcoming obstacles and achieving the impossible! A wheelchair-bound individual with paralysis proves that nothing is impossible, bravely taking the leap of faith from India's highest bungee jump platform, standing at 117 meters."
The video garnered over six million views and sparked widespread reactions online. Social media users expressed a mix of emotions, ranging from admiration for the man’s courage to concerns about safety. One viewer commented, "One viewer shared, this video is giving me flashbacks to my own bungee jumping experience" Another praised the jumper's bravery, saying, "He's incredibly courageous! I wouldn’t attempt this even with full mobility." The professionalism of the crew also drew praise, with comments highlighting their careful approach to safety. Others found inspiration in the man’s determination, with one user writing, "This is pure motivation—a reminder that boundaries exist only in the mind."
Amid the applause, some viewers voiced reservations. One commenter questioned the necessity of such risks, writing, "I don’t understand the need to risk so much for a few views " Another viewer expressed concern about whether the wheelchair was designed to withstand the stresses of the jump. However, these doubts were countered by many who applauded the man’s decision to live life on his terms. A poetic response encapsulated this sentiment: "I asked them... Can a broken spirit be mended? Can someone who cannot walk, fly?"
The man, identified as Aabhay Dogra, later addressed the reactions in the video’s comments section, expressing gratitude to the Himalayan Bungy team for facilitating his dream. To alleviate concerns, he posted a reassuring update: 'I'm happy, and everything is intact - no worries!' My life is no different from anyone else’s, and I believe in living it to the fullest.” Reflecting on his experience, he added, "I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and I'm definitely up for doing it again someday."
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Sai Sindhuja K/MSM)