Sudha Mahalingam, now in her 70s, is a daring traveler with an insatiable wanderlust. Criticized for disregarding societal norms and advocating for independent female travel, Mahalingam thrives on her adventurous spirit and unwavering curiosity.
When following her husband on business trips abroad, Mahalingam used the opportunity to explore new territories. Her husband, disinterested in sightseeing, often took her on guided tours, but she preferred unplanned escapades. She journeyed to 66 countries across six continents, documenting her experiences on her blog, Footloose Indian, and in her book, The Travel God Must Be Crazy.
Mahalingam's travel pursuits were often unplanned, and her first overseas adventures often took place without visas, proper accommodations, or knowledge of the local language. However, the challenges only fueled her passion to explore. From visiting Madagaskar to witness lemurs to navigating Borneo's treacherous terrain, her stories are filled with thrilling encounters, making for an unforgettable journey.
Adventurous at heart, Mahalingam also enjoys various activities like skydiving, trekking, and fishing. She even visited Tibet and the Himalayas, wading into freezing-cold rivers and crossing treacherous mountain paths. Mahalingam prefers independent travel, but sometimes, friends accompany her on her ventures.
Despite the risks and challenges, Mahalingam remains unfazed, even when faced with threatening situations. From encountering armed officials in Kashmir to experiencing armed attacks and roadblocks, she continues to adventure unafraid. Mahalingam believes that her travel experiences have taught her to accept and appreciate other cultures, to trust strangers, and to embrace the diversity of humanity.
Even in her 70s, Mahalingam's adventurous spirit hasn't waned. She recently took a trip to Goa and plans to travel to Coorg next. When travel restrictions during the global pandemic ease, she hopes to join a Clipper Race, a luxury, yet expensive opportunity. Her dream destinations include Chile, Patagonia, and Argentina, keeping her list of places to visit constantly growing.
She reflects on her rich and exciting journey, acknowledging the impact it's had on her perception of other cultures and her appreciation for Mother Nature. The experiences have brought a sense of humility, making her feel both grateful and modest for the opportunities she's been blessed with.
