Pratik Bijlani –
On 11 October, the DMET/MERI Alumni Association came together once again for their much-awaited annual Pre-Diwali Bash, marking the 4th consecutive celebration of this cherished tradition. Held at the Ramada Hotel in Navi Mumbai, the event brought together former cadets, faculty members, and maritime professionals from across batches and chapters in a vibrant evening filled with nostalgia, camaraderie, and festive joy.
The celebration was designed to rekindle old bonds and embrace the spirit of Diwali in advance, blending the warmth of the festival with the pride of belonging to one of India’s most respected maritime institutions. Alumni travelled from various parts of the country — and some even from overseas — to reunite with their peers, mentors, and juniors, reminiscing about their formative years at DMET/MERI and their journeys at sea.
The evening commenced with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony accompanied by Saraswati Vandana, setting a solemn yet joyful tone. Distinguished alumni led the inauguration, symbolizing the light of knowledge and shared heritage that continues to guide generations of mariners. The gathering also observed a minute of silence in remembrance of Shri Sharad Mishra (Batch of 1999), honouring his memory and contributions to the maritime community.
Adding a lively spark to the evening, MC Prince Grover took charge of the entertainment, hosting interactive games for couples and children that drew laughter and cheers from the audience. The light-hearted moments reflected the true spirit of the occasion — one of inclusivity, family, and togetherness.
Following the fun and games, the event included a felicitation ceremony to honour the sponsors and supporters who made the celebration possible. Their contributions underscored the collective effort that keeps the alumni network active and growing each year.
The highlight of the evening was the cultural segment, where family members and children of alumni showcased their talents through music, dance, poetry, and other performances. Each act added a personal and heartwarming touch to the evening, reinforcing the family-oriented nature of the gathering. The performances were accompanied by a delightful spread of drinks, starters, and a gala dinner, allowing alumni and their families to relax, interact, and celebrate under one festive roof.
The program included a warm festive ambience, music and dance floor, surprise entertainment, memorabilia, and prizes for the best-dressed participants, all of which made the night truly memorable.
Beyond the festivities, the event carried deeper significance. Such reunions are more than social gatherings — they serve as vital touchpoints for mentorship, professional networking, and knowledge sharing among maritime professionals. They reaffirm the institutional pride and unity that define the DMET/MERI fraternity, bridging generations through shared experiences and aspirations.
As lights, laughter, and music filled the evening, one thing was evident — the spirit of DMET/MERI continues to shine bright, much like the festival it celebrated. The 4th Pre-Diwali Bash was not just an event; it was a reaffirmation of legacy, friendship, and the unbreakable bond that ties the alumni together — across ships, seas, and time.
Marex Media
The Bond That Never Fades
“It feels wonderful to reconnect after 40 years — it makes me feel younger! The nostalgia, the friendships, and the shared memories of DMET bring immense joy. Meeting old friends and the younger generation keeps the spirit alive. The DMET bond is unbreakable — no DMET-ian is ever alone; we always stand by each other. Events like this strengthen that unity and pride within the maritime fraternity.” — Cdr Gaurav Agarwal (Retd.), Principal Consultant, Advait PFS LLP
Unity in Diversity
“Reconnecting with the DMET/MERI family after over a decade away has been truly heartwarming. Meeting old friends, families, and seeing the next generation take pride in their parents’ maritime legacy fills me with hope. Our alumni network, now over 12,000 strong worldwide, is a pillar of unity and support. Events like this remind us of our shared journey, our enduring friendship, and the strong bond that defines our community.” – — Mr Kaushik Seal, President, IMEI
Pride in Our Alma Mater
“It’s a refreshing and joyful experience reconnecting with my batchmates, seniors, and juniors in such a vibrant setting. Unlike corporate gatherings, this social celebration feels more personal and heartwarming. Events like these remind me how much my alma mater has shaped who I am today. It’s always a matter of great pride and privilege to represent DMET/MERI — and I look forward to being part of many more such reunions ahead.” — Mr Ambar Roy, Country Manager, ABS