Pratik Bijlani –
In a poignant ceremony at Mumbai’s historic Sailors Memorial in Masjid Bunder, the maritime community came together on April 5th, 2024, to mark the inauguration of National Maritime Day 2024. The solemn event, organized by the Shipping Fraternity, paid homage to the seamen and merchant navy personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice during World War I and II.
The Sailors Memorial, a cherished heritage site erected in 1931, stands as a testament to the bravery and dedication of those who served at sea. Adorned with the names of 2,223 Royal Navy seamen lost in World War I, etched on tall brass plaques alongside their respective ships, the memorial hall resonates with the echoes of history. Also written in bold is an inscription that reads, “The royal Indian marine and the merchant navy who fell in the great war and whose grave is the sea,” serving as a reminder of the perils faced by maritime personnel.
Adding to its significance, a recent addition to the memorial is a World War II Memorial—a brass casket enclosing a book honoring the names of 6,531 lives lost at sea during the tumultuous period of global conflict. The serene atmosphere within the hall, reminiscent of a sacred space with its church-like dome and skylight, lends a solemnity befitting the occasion.
The wreath-laying ceremony, attended by esteemed dignitaries and representatives of the maritime sector, was graced by Chief Guest Dr. Manik G Gursal, IAS, CEO of Maharashtra Maritime Board. Also present were Mr Shyam Jagannathan, Director General of Shipping & Chairman of the NMDC (Central) Committee, Capt. B.K Tyagi, Chairman & Managing Director of SCI Ltd. & Vice Chairman of the NMDC (C) Committee, Dr. Pandurang Raut, Deputy Director General of Shipping & Member Secretary of the NMDC (C) Committee, and Capt. Tushar Pradhan, General Secretary at The Maritime Union of India.
As the maritime community commemorates National Maritime Day, the Sailors Memorial stands as a poignant symbol of remembrance, honoring the indomitable spirit and sacrifices of those who sailed the seas in service of their nations. It serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact of war on the lives of countless sailors and soldiers, echoing through the annals of history.
Marex Media