Leela Jose, a 70-year-old woman from Konnathady in Kerala’s Idukki district, has created history by skydiving from 13,000 feet in Dubai. She is believed to be the first Indian woman of her age to achieve such a daring milestone.
In an interview with Gulf News, Leela said her dream became reality during a recent visit to Dubai to meet her son, Anees B. Jose. “I expressed my wish to skydive, but many friends discouraged me, saying it was impossible at my age. My son, however, took me seriously and arranged the jump with a professional skydiving group in Dubai,” she recalled.
Sharing her experience, she said, “From the top, I could see the entire Dubai landscape. Looking at the sea, I thought that if anything went wrong, I could escape into the water as I am a good swimmer. It was a beautiful and unforgettable moment.”
Leela credited her husband’s encouragement for inspiring her to take on new adventures. “He never puts obstacles in my way. This is not my first adventure—I have already done ziplining in Wayanad and paragliding in Fujairah,” she said.
A proud mother of two sons and grandmother of two, Leela believes age should never be a barrier. “I have lived my life to the fullest. Whatever time remains is a bonus. I am even ready to go to space—why not? There is no age limit to dreaming,” she remarked with a smile.
