A small village in the foothills of the Himalayas is abuzz with pride after 18-year-old Mehreen Dhillon etched her name in the India Book of Records. Recognised as the ‘Youngest Female To Drive Across Winter Spiti Circuit In Snow’, the determined amateur motorist embarked on a journey that spanned 1,192 km of some of the most challenging terrain in the region.
A Journey of Grit and Determination
From Kufri to Manali, Mehreen navigated a treacherous route that cut across iconic landmarks such as Rampur, Kaza, Chicham Bridge, Kalpa, and Jalori Pass. The arduous expedition, completed in just seven days between February 17 and February 23, saw her steering a Maruti Jimny through dangerous stretches of black snow. The journey was further amplified by an 82-car convoy, ensuring safety and camaraderie amidst the cold, testing environment.
Accompanied by her father, Dharam Singh, Mehreen displayed an unwavering resolve, taking on a route where even seasoned drivers have faced fatal mishaps in recent years. “Though it was a challenging journey I dared to navigate the treacherous roads, that too, without snow chains on the tyres as my mentors, including my father, sat along me to boost my morale,” she recalled, underscoring the blend of youthful audacity and seasoned support that marked her journey.
Community Celebrates a Local Hero
The feat has brought immense pride to Ghungrana. “We could never have imagined that the habit of casually learning to drive on a kutcha road that leads to our farm would instill such confidence in our granddaughter,” said Darshan Singh and Harwinder Kaur, Mehreen’s grandparents. Their sentiments reflect the joy and astonishment of a community witnessing one of their own overcome the formidable Himalayan terrain.
The excitement in the village is palpable. Local sports enthusiast Bunny Dhillon shared plans for an upcoming function, where Mehreen and other local achievers will be honored. “We have already started planning a function, which shall be held soon. All achievers, including Mehreen, will be felicitated during the proposed function,” he said, emphasizing the community’s intent to celebrate homegrown talent.
Memories to Last a Lifetime
For Mehreen, the experience is etched in her heart as a pinnacle of youthful achievement. Apart from academic accolades and applauded Bharatnatyam performances, the journey remains a standout moment in her young life. “Being a part of Mountain Goat 313, and fetching a prestigious record is not an episode that will ever slip my memory,” she reflected. The journey was punctuated by unforgettable experiences such as sending a postcard from Hikkim, the highest post office in the world, capturing videos from Komic – the highest motorable village – and receiving blessings from the revered Key Monastery.
Looking ahead, Mehreen is set on a future that balances her passion for adventure with academic ambitions. She revealed plans to focus on her studies and pursue a career in engineering, a field that she believes will open up myriad opportunities, including further adventures on the road.
A Trailblazer for Future Generations
Mehreen Dhillon’s record-setting journey not only establishes her as a formidable young driver but also inspires countless others from her native region. Her achievement is a testament to what can be accomplished with determination, supportive family, and a community that celebrates its heroes. As Ghungrana prepares to honor its local star, Mehreen’s adventure will remain a shining example of courage and ambition, lighting the way for future generations in the rugged Himalayan landscapes.
