Pratik Bijlani –
The spirit of seafaring was celebrated with pride, gratitude and reflection as Marine Management Services (MMS) Group commemorated the Day of the Seafarer 2026 on 25 June at Garware House, Mumbai, with a programme that celebrated the people, values and vision that have shaped the organisation for over five decades. Bringing together employees, seafarers, industry veterans and maritime leaders, the event highlighted MMS Group’s continued commitment to technical excellence, innovation, wellness and the welfare of seafarers.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by CEO Capt Sudheer Naphade, who applauded the dedication of MMS employees, many of whom have spent decades with the organisation, helping establish it as one of India’s leading maritime service providers. A corporate film then traced the company’s journey from its establishment in 1971 by the late marine engineer Suresh Godbole as Martek Engineering Works to its evolution into a global provider of ship management, crew management, voyage repairs, technical consultancy, offshore services, digital marine solutions and maritime training.
Managing Director Mr Aniruddha Godbole reflected on the company’s remarkable journey, crediting its growth to the vision of founder Suresh Godbole and the dedication of generations of employees. Highlighting the company’s expertise in executing complex repairs on operational vessels, he said, “Our journey began with the vision of my father, Mr Suresh Godbole, in 1971. Today, that vision thrives because of our people.”
Promoting seafarer wellbeing formed another key aspect of the celebrations. Yoga expert Mr Dileep Dauneria conducted an interactive session demonstrating stretching exercises, pranayama and meditation techniques aimed at preventing common physical ailments while reducing stress and improving mental health. Participants were encouraged to incorporate simple daily wellness practices into their routine to maintain long-term physical and psychological fitness.
One of the most emotional moments of the programme came during a tribute to Mrs. Veena Godbole, wife of the late founder Suresh Godbole. Her remarkable contribution to the organisation’s early years was recognised, recalling how she sailed alongside her husband, gained hands-on engineering knowledge in the engine room, and later managed technical documentation and commercial operations ashore. Reflecting on her husband’s legacy, she said, “My Husband,
Mr Suresh Godbole never saw challenges as obstacles—he saw them as opportunities to innovate. His vision, discipline and passion for excellence laid the foundation of MMS Group and continue to inspire every one of us.”
The event also marked the launch of Seva Vritta (Onboard Work Reporting Portal – OWRP), a web-based application developed to simplify onboard work reporting through real-time digital documentation. The platform enables personnel to record daily activities via mobile devices, eliminating manual paperwork while improving operational transparency and recognition of employee contributions.
Recognising excellence remained a major highlight as MMS Group presented its Super Achievers Awards and introduced a new Young Achievers Seafarer category to encourage emerging maritime professionals. Although many awardees were serving onboard vessels, colleagues accepted the honours on their behalf, symbolising the teamwork and shared commitment that define the profession.
Chief Guest Capt Mohan Naik, Managing Director of Dynacom Tankers, emphasised that a strong safety culture is built through vigilance, learning and accountability. “Safety at sea is never achieved by chance. It is built through discipline, reporting near misses, learning from every incident, and having the courage to act before a small hazard becomes a major accident”, he remarked.
The celebrations also featured an insightful session by Dr Radhika Vakharia on mental health, highlighting the importance of resilience, mindfulness and open communication in addressing the unique psychological challenges faced by seafarers. Blending wellness, technology, recognition and inspiration, MMS Group’s Day of the Seafarer 2026 served as a fitting tribute to the resilience and dedication of the men and women who keep the global maritime industry moving.
The post-lunch session featured team-building activities and interactive discussions, encouraging seafarers to share their experiences and engage with the Management. The celebrations concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Dr Sagarika Damle, Executive Director, MMS Group, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to the welfare and growth of its seafarers.
Marex Media