In a solemn ceremony at Worli's JK Kapur Chowk, twenty sharply dressed naval veterans stood in perfect formation, their suits adorned with neatly arranged medals. They paraded with precision to pay heartfelt respects to INS Mumbai, the city's namesake destroyer that has completed a remarkable twenty-five years of service on the high seas.
A Legacy of Indigenization and Excellence
The guided-missile destroyer, commissioned on January 22, 2001, represents a significant milestone in India's naval history. With a displacement of 6,700 tonnes and a length of 163 meters—slightly larger than a cricket field—INS Mumbai remains one of the Indian Navy's most formidable platforms. Crewed by 45 officers and nearly 350 sailors, the ship has been a symbol of national pride and maritime strength.
Overcoming Challenges in Construction
Retired commander Bhupesh Tater, who was intimately involved in the warship's construction, shared insights into the formidable challenges faced during its making. "She was one of the most difficult projects undertaken at Mazgaon Dock at the time," he recalled. "The disintegration of the Soviet Union forced us to rethink our dependencies and triggered one of India's first serious drives towards indigenization." This push for self-reliance marked a turning point in the country's defense manufacturing capabilities.
Operational Valor and Global Contributions
Veterans at the gathering reminisced about their time aboard INS Mumbai, sharing stories of long months at sea, shared adventures, promotions earned, and moments of valor. Retired commander Alok Bhagwat recounted his command of the ship during Operation Parakram, which was triggered by the 2001 Parliament terror attack. "The Indian Navy decided to completely blockade Karachi port—no ship going in and no ship going out," he said. For his exemplary service during this critical operation, Commander Bhagwat was later awarded the prestigious Nao Sena Medal.
Combating Piracy in the Gulf of Aden
Commander Tater also highlighted the ship's role in international efforts to combat piracy. "When I was commanding the ship, we began participating in the international effort to combat piracy in the Gulf of Aden," he explained. "Although she was not designed for prolonged patrolling duties, her sheer capacity and versatility allowed us to reorient our procedures and perform effectively on the world stage, protecting merchant convoys." This adaptability underscored the destroyer's strategic importance beyond traditional naval engagements.
Enduring Bonds and Quiet Celebrations
Old comrades stood shoulder to shoulder at the event, posing for photographs beside a model of the ship, their memories flowing freely. Currently, INS Mumbai is out at sea, which is why veterans noted they were unable to organize an elaborate function to mark this significant milestone. Nevertheless, the gathering served as a quiet yet powerful reminder that while ships sail on, the bonds forged aboard them endure, transcending time and distance.
The ceremony not only honored a quarter-century of service but also celebrated the spirit of innovation, courage, and camaraderie that defines the Indian Navy. As INS Mumbai continues to patrol the oceans, its legacy remains anchored in the hearts of those who served on it, inspiring future generations of sailors and officers.
