First Indian Man to Swim Across the English Channel, Know His Name

Mihir Sen was a trailblazing Indian long-distance swimmer and lawyer, renowned for his remarkable feats in the world of swimming. His achievements not only earned him a place in the Guinness Book of Records but also made him a national hero in India. This article explores his life, career, and legacy.

Early Life of Mihir Sen

Mihir Sen was born in Purulia, West Bengal, on 16 November 1930, to physician Ramesh Sengupta and his wife, Lilabati. His family moved to Cuttack, Odisha, when he was eight, due to better educational opportunities. Sen pursued a degree in law from Utkal University in Bhubaneswar. Despite financial constraints, he was able to travel to England in 1950 with the support of Biju Patnaik, the then Chief Minister of Orissa.

Life in England

In England, Sen was employed at India House by Indian Ambassador Krishna Menon. He enrolled at Lincoln’s Inn on 21 February 1951, where he studied law through self-study. Sen was called to the Bar at Lincoln’s Inn on 23 November 1954. His time in England was marked by significant achievements in both his professional and swimming careers.

Swimming Career of Mihir Sen

Mihir Sen’s swimming career was distinguished by several groundbreaking achievements:

1. Conquering the English Channel: On 27 September 1958, Sen became the first Asian to swim across the English Channel from Dover to Calais, setting a record time of 14 hours and 45 minutes.
2. Swimming Across Five Continents: In 1966, Sen became the first person to swim across five different bodies of water in one calendar year. These included:

• The Palk Strait (5-6 April) between Ceylon (Sri Lanka) and Dhanushkodi (India) in 25 hours and 36 minutes.
• The Straits of Gibraltar (24 August) in 8 hours and 1 minute.
• The Dardanelles (12 September) in 13 hours and 55 minutes.
• The Bosphorus (1966) in 4 hours.
• The Panama Canal (29-31 October) in 34 hours and 15 minutes.
• These feats earned him a place in the Guinness Book of Records and the title of “world’s greatest long-distance swimmer.”

These accomplishments earned him a place in the Guinness Book of Records and the title of world’s greatest long-distance swimmer.

First Indian to Swim Across the English Channel

Mihir Sen made history on September 27, 1958, as the first Indian to swim across the English Channel. He completed the challenging swim from Dover to Calais in 14 hours and 45 minutes, setting a record for the fastest Asian swimmer. This achievement marked a significant milestone in his remarkable career.

Mihir Sen – Recognition and Awards

Sen’s achievements were recognized both nationally and internationally. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1959 and the Padma Bhushan in 1967 by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Additionally, he won the Blitz Nehru Trophy for his daring achievements in long-distance swimming.

Life of Mihir Sen in India

Upon returning to India in 1958, Sen faced racial discrimination, including being barred from clubs due to their ‘whites only’ policy. His successful media campaign led to the abolition of this discriminatory rule. Sen initially practiced criminal law at the Calcutta High Court but later shifted to business. In 1977, he declined an offer to join the Communist Party of India (Marxist), leading to political retaliation that adversely affected his business.

Death of Mihir Sen

Mihir Sen passed away on 11 June 1997 in Calcutta, West Bengal, due to complications from Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disJease. His legacy as a pioneering swimmer and influential figure in Indian sports endures.

Legacy of Mihir Sen

Mihir Sen remains a symbol of perseverance and excellence in long-distance swimming. His remarkable achievements and contributions continue to inspire swimmers and athletes worldwide.