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Record-breaking mountaineer Nirmal Purja dies in Pakistan avalanche

Nirmal Purja, a world-renowned British-Nepali climber, died at age 43 following an avalanche on Pakistan's Broad Peak. Purja, who gained international fame for climbing all 14 of the world's highest peaks in a single season, was the leader of a 10-person expedition that included climbers from the United States, China, Oman, and Pakistan. The avalanche claimed the lives of all 10 members, including several prominent Nepali guides. Purja's career was marked by significant achievements, including serving a decade in the British military's Special Boat Service and being awarded an MBE by Queen Elizabeth II. While he became a global icon for his high-altitude feats, he also faced recent scrutiny over sexual harassment allegations, which he denied through his lawyer. Rescuers have recovered several bodies, though some remain on the mountain due to hazardous terrain. Tributes have poured in from Nepal and the UK, with Prince William praising Purja's courage and determination as one of the world's greatest mountaineers.

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