From my early days in the Indian Navy, I felt an irresistible allure to the skies. The thought of soaring like a bird, cutting through the wind, and experiencing the freedom of solo flight ignited a passion that would lead me on an extraordinary journey through Hang Gliding (HG), Paragliding (PG), and Powered Hang Gliding (PHG). These adventures became transformative experiences that shaped my perspectives on discipline, courage, and embracing challenges.
Hang Gliding: The Foundation of Solo Flight
My initiation into aviation began in 1999 during a Hang-Gliding camp in Vishakhapatnam. At that time, HG was a niche sport requiring immense focus and dedication, as it involved flying a non-motorized, rigid-wing aircraft that relied purely on air currents.
My solo flights during this camp marked the beginning of an exhilarating journey.In the years that followed, I devoted myself to mastering the intricacies of HG, from takeoffs and landings to advanced maneuvers. My dedication culminated in a significant achievement at the Tri-services Hang Gliding Championship, where I won the Gold Medal in the individual event—competing against some of the best pilots, including my own instructor, a Limca Book of Records holder.
This victory instilled immense confidence in me and earned me the respect of my peers.Hang Gliding offered me a unique combination of thrill and serenity. Launching from towering cliffs, I experienced nature’s sheer power as thermals lifted my glider, providing the sensation of being one with the wind. The freedom to navigate vast landscapes with no engine sound—just the whistle of the wind—was an unparalleled experience.However, this sport came with its share of risks.
Flying a rigid-wing glider demands precise control, especially in turbulent wind conditions. One of my most daring moments was flying from Billing, Himachal Pradesh, with a landing zone at Bir—a location infamous for a fatal HG accident years prior. Despite warnings, I chose to push forward. The exhilaration of mastering this challenging terrain and achieving top landings remains etched in my memory.
Paragliding: The Evolution of Freedom
After mastering HG, my journey naturally progressed to Paragliding—a form of solo flight using a flexible wing. While it lacked the rigidity and technical complexity of HG, PG introduced new dimensions of versatility and ease. The lightweight equipment made it simpler to travel to remote locations and explore uncharted skies.In 2001, I had the privilege of representing the Indian Navy at the Pre-World Cup Paragliding Championship in Bir-Billing—a world-renowned PG destination.
Competing alongside some of the finest pilots globally was humbling; although my team didn’t secure a podium finish, witnessing international talent enriched my skills significantly.Paragliding offered me an unparalleled sense of exploration. Whether gliding over serene landscapes or navigating thermal columns to gain altitude, PG expanded my appreciation for the elements. Unlike HG, where precision is key, PG allowed for a more intuitive flying experience.
Flying a flexible-wing paraglider demands acute situational awareness. Wind shear, unexpected downdrafts, and turbulence require quick reflexes and decision-making. The lack of a rigid structure makes the wing more susceptible to collapses, adding unpredictability to every flight.
Powered Hang Gliding: The Future of Adventure
As my confidence grew, I transitioned to Powered Hang Gliding and microlight flying—a logical progression that combined the thrill of free flight with the convenience of a powered engine. PHG added excitement by allowing longer flights and more controlled navigation.Achieving solo proficiency in PHG required 14 hours of flight training—a testament to mastering powered aviation’s complexities.
I vividly recall numerous flights at Vishakhapatnam and operational demonstrations in Chennai. A highlight was performing during the prestigious International Fleet Review (IFR) in 2001; while fighter jets had mere seconds for their flypasts, my microlight commanded an 8-minute aerial display before the President of India—a moment filled with pride. The ability to take off from flat terrains and perform low-altitude maneuvers showcased this sport’s versatility—a fusion of aviation and adventure that pushed boundaries.
The global community of aviators shares a unique bond—a mutual respect for the skies and courage to embrace challenges. International events foster collaboration and inspiration across cultural divides.
Reflections on a Life in the Skies
Flying is not just a sport for me—it’s a way of life about pushing boundaries, embracing risks, and finding joy in sky freedom. As I reflect on these experiences, I hope to inspire others to take flight—both literally and metaphorically—and discover boundless possibilities beyond the horizon.Looking back on my journey through Hang Gliding, Paragliding, and Powered Hang Gliding reveals an extraordinary path filled with invaluable lessons in patience, resilience, and joy from pursuing passion. Whether achieving my first solo flight or representing the Indian Navy on an international stage, every experience reinforced my belief in adventure’s transformative power.
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