Pratik Bijlani –
On 21 February, The Company of Master Mariners of India (CMMI) hosted its Annual Dinner Function 2026 at The Club, bringing together senior leaders and professionals from India’s maritime community for an evening of networking, celebration, and recognition. The gathering reflected the strength and camaraderie of the fraternity, blending formal honours with vibrant entertainment, including a live band, interactive games, spot prizes, and a themed ramp walk featuring captains and their spouses.
The event was attended by prominent industry stalwarts including Capt MP Bhasin, Chairman of CMMI; Capt Mohan Naik, Deputy Chairman; Mr Shyam Jagannathan, IAS, Director General of Shipping; Capt BK Tyagi, CMD of SCI; Mr Deepak Shetty, Former DG of Shipping; Capt Nalin Pandey, Chairman of CMMI Navi Mumbai Chapter; Capt BP Singh, General Secretary of CMMI Navi Mumbai Chapter and Mr Sanjeev Mehra, Chairman of IMEI Mumbai Branch among many other distinguished personalities.
One of the most captivating segments of the evening was the themed ramp walk titled “Three Generations, One Legacy,” symbolically portraying the enduring journey of CMMI. The presentation was divided into three colours: Red representing veteran masters and their spouses who uphold tradition and institutional wisdom; Blue symbolizing current leaders steering the industry with professionalism and trust; and Yellow reflecting the young and dynamic future masters driving innovation and inclusivity. Senior stalwarts, industry heads, and emerging leaders walked alongside their spouses, sharing brief messages of commitment, ethics, and maritime excellence. The segment beautifully illustrated continuity and optimism, honouring legacy while confidently charting the course ahead.
The evening also featured the presentation of prestigious awards recognising distinguished service and exemplary action. Lifetime Achievement Awards were conferred upon Capt Virendra Nath Aindley and Dr (Capt) K Vivekanand, while the Founder’s Leadership Award went to Capt BVJK Sharma. Capt Pravesh Diwan received the Founder’s Innovation Award, and Exemplary Action Awards were presented to Capt Biby Chacko and Capt Rajat Trehan. Additional recognitions included commendations for Capt VK Gaikwad, Capt KP Rajagopal, and Capt R Venkataraman Iyer. Senior officials including Mr Shetty, Mr Sushil Khopde, Capt Tyagi, and Mr Jagannathan were also felicitated for their contributions to Indian shipping.
In his acceptance remarks, Capt Aindley reflected on his long association with the institution, stating, “Having seen CMMI grow from a modest, low-profile gathering in the 1990s to the vibrant institution it is today has been a long and deeply satisfying journey—one I am truly grateful to have been part of.” His words resonated with members who have witnessed the organization’s remarkable transformation over the decades.
Dr (Capt) Vivekanand expressed heartfelt gratitude, saying, “I am deeply honoured to receive this Lifetime Achievement Award from a fraternity to which I have devoted over six decades of my professional life, and I accept it with sincere humility and gratitude.” His acknowledgement underscored a lifetime dedicated to maritime service and fraternity values.
Chief Guest Mr Jagannathan described the occasion as historic, remarking, “This is truly a red-letter day. The leadership within CMMI has consistently guided Indian maritime progress, and as we transition towards a new maritime administration framework, we must work together in partnership to shape the future of our great shipping nation.”
The Annual Dinner 2026 not only celebrated individual excellence but also reaffirmed CMMI’s collective commitment to leadership, partnership, and the continued advancement of India’s maritime sector.
Marex Media