Land Ahoy!

The ocean waves were hitting the shore of Bombay, SS Loyalty stood in magnificence, the sails were set high towards UK, it was the first ship of the Scindia Steam Navigation Company Ltd. We celebrate National Maritime Day today to honour this first sail!

The Indian Coast Guard; Source: Economic Times

In the Indian book of history,  a whole new chapter was created when SS Loyalty, the very first ship of several to follow of The Scindia Steam Navigation Company Ltd crossed waters to reach the United Kingdom, making history with every nautical mile.

This was a pivotal advance in India's transportation history when oceanic courses were constrained by the English. Allow us to disclose to you that this consequential day; 5 April 1964 continues to be commended annually to remind the country about the impact of this day and also draws the spotlight on intercontinental business and the economy around the world.

On this day an honour called "Varuna" is given to the individuals who made an exceptional commitment to the great Indian waters. An award to reward bravery in the face of one of the most merciless forces of nature; the ocean.

Named as the National Maritime Day, it celebrates the leaving of the SS Loyalty of the ports of colonial Bombay. One can only imagine the fanfare, the hustle-bustle of the crew and the heady excitement at the harbour.

The Scindia Steam Navigation Company Ltd. being the oldest shipping company in India, holds this journey, proudly on their mantel. For obviously, this was no small feat, dear reader, what with the British being intensely controlling (Meghan Markle and Prince Harry would agree), with the shipping routes.

The adventure of India's first delivery to put it blandly initially began on April 5, 1919, and has grown into one of the most massive maritime industries seen by the world.

Post-Independence the nation has planned and executed a remarkable development in transportation. With the UK founding a Worldwide Sea Association with a goal for sea assurance in the international water-space, 1959 saw India becoming a partner of the organisation.