Delphine Estibeiro –
Mumbai’s maritime fraternity gathered in impressive numbers on 21 October at the prestigious Sri Shanmukhananda Fine Arts & Sangeetha Sabha for the Riya Marine-Marex Media 14th Edition of Kashti – The Musical 2026, an evening that once again demonstrated the power of music to bring the shipping community together.
More than an entertainment programme, Kashti has evolved into a cherished maritime institution, symbolising the journeys, aspirations and shared experiences that bind the industry. This year’s edition attracted over 2,000 attendees, including shipping industry leaders, seafarers, veterans, family members, cadets and maritime stakeholders, reaffirming its status as one of the sector’s most anticipated annual gatherings.
A defining highlight of the evening was the return of acclaimed playback singer Hema Sardesai to the Kashti stage after an 18-year hiatus. Her electrifying performance, marked by powerful vocals and popular hits, captivated the audience and added a touch of nostalgia to the celebrations.
The event also underscored Kashti’s enduring commitment to nurturing future maritime talent. A total of 144 cadets and 21 faculty members from The Great Eastern Institute of Maritime Studies, Indian Maritime University – Mumbai Port Campus, Anglo-Eastern Maritime Academy and Ganpat University participated in the programme. During the inauguration ceremony, cadets joined in the traditional lamp-lighting ritual, symbolically representing the future of India’s maritime sector.
Reflecting on the significance of the event, Mr Bharat Mehhrotra, Associate Vice President (Business Development), Riya Marine Travel, said: “The maritime industry is built on people, partnerships and a shared understanding of the challenges that come with keeping the world connected. What makes an evening like Kashti special is the opportunity to step beyond our day-to-day roles, reconnect with peers and strengthen the relationships that sustain this community. As an industry, we have much to gain from creating more spaces for meaningful dialogue and collaboration. For us at Riya Marine, being part of this community means not just serving its needs, but actively contributing to its growth and cohesion.”
The evening also recognised outstanding contributions to Indian shipping with the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to Capt Sudhir S Naphade. A respected maritime veteran, former Nautical Adviser to the Government of India and former Director General of Shipping (in charge), Capt Naphade was honoured for a distinguished career spanning ship operations, maritime administration and industry leadership.
In his acceptance remarks, the 84-year-young mariner shared a simple but powerful lesson from his mentor: whatever profession one chooses, strive to be the very best at it. Addressing the many cadets present, he encouraged young professionals to pursue excellence throughout their careers, drawing warm applause from the audience.
Leading support for Kashti 2026 came from Riya Travel And Tours (India) Pvt Ltd, alongside valued contributors including Anglo-Eastern Ship Management (India) Pvt Ltd, Seaspan Crew Management India Pvt Ltd, d’Amico Ship Ishima India, The Great Eastern Shipping Company Ltd, The Maritime Union of India, Elite Mariners, Ganpat University, MASSA, Patel International, Sea Bird Medicare, Seaarland Management Services, TBO and Tolani Maritime Institute.
As the curtains fell on the 14th edition, the overarching message was clear: while ships connect nations, it is people, relationships and shared experiences that truly hold the maritime community together. Kashti 2026 celebrated precisely that spirit.
Marex Media