The OSM Thome Officers’ conference 2025, held at the Hilton Mumbai International Airport Hotel was truly a celebration of professionalism, bonding, and heartfelt moments. For my husband, Capt. Rajesh Todiwan, this was his very first in person conference in his over three decade seafaring career. Over the years, he’d had many opportunities to attend similar events, but circumstances always seemed to keep him away. I still remember the last one—our tickets were booked, the bags packed, and plans in place—only for his joining date to be suddenly moved up, making it impossible to attend. That disappointment lingered, a silent wish unfulfilled.
This time, however, everything fell into place. When I heard about the three day event, I knew this was an opportunity he couldn’t miss. Spouse could accompany the officer – though I initially couldn’t join him for the entire duration 8th to 10th July due to my own commitments, I made it a point to rework my schedule to be with him at least for a day. I vividly recall sitting in my office that morning, checking the clock anxiously as I wrapped up a training session, thinking, “I will make this happen — for him, for us.” And I did!
On July 7th, my husband checked into the hotel late at night, but his eagerness was palpable from the moment he woke up early, almost like a schoolboy awaiting his first day at school. His excitement was infectious — I could see the sparkle in his eyes, eager to start the day. His schedule was more than hectic: visa interview at one end of town and medical at the other followed by the last minute packing. Yet, amid the chaos, he was all smiles, sharing snippets of what he was looking forward to. I couldn’t help but smile at his enthusiasm; it reminded me of my own first days in a new role — full of hope and curiosity.
Thanks to the meticulous planning by the management, especially Preksha and Nayana coordinating from the Delhi office, and Mansi planning Rajesh’s schedule, the conference ran smoothly. I am grateful for their efforts, especially when hubby kept me updated on the sessions. His descriptions of the topics, the engaging trainers, and the lively discussions made me feel like I was right there with him. It was interesting to note how many of the topics aligned with my own interests and expertise — I found myself learning alongside him, exchanging notes mentally and feeling a renewed sense of professional curiosity. After the first day, he returned to his room, meticulously ironing his clothes and organizing his things for the next day. I remember peeking in (through a WhatsApp call) and seeing him in a focused, almost ritualistic mode — a small but meaningful act that spoke volumes about his interest.
Day 2 began with his morning call to me, talking about the busy day ahead and that he was looking forward to seeing me in the evening for the party I promised I would join. I had a very busy schedule that day: an early training session with management trainees and an online training session for teams from various locations in the afternoon. I planned my travel during the lunch break – a decision that saved me from the city’s usual traffic chaos.
I reached the Hilton at 2 pm, headed straight for a quick meal. The buffet was still on and I picked up a bite. That’s when I met Don Salcedo, who was having his lunch post his training session. Chetan Bhandari introduced us, and we hit it off well being from the same fraternity. Then Bruce Arcellano joined us — I recognized him from pictures Rajesh had shared of his session. It was wonderful exchanging notes with them and enjoying their conversation laden with a dash of humour generally seen among batchmates.
I rushed to the room, set up my laptop for the training almost two hours went by; I had a good attendance and a happy session. Then I waited in anticipation for hubby to return from his training. He was delighted to see me. We were just talking when we heard the doorbell. I thought maybe someone from the housekeeping was there. But when hubby opened the door, we saw two chefs and a service team member with welcome amenities – a cake and other goodies! I was surprised and pleasantly so. This thoughtful gesture was truly heartfelt from the industry I come from and have spent over 25 years in. Thanks to the management at Hilton and the team led by Chef Altamash Patel, they truly added to the already wonderful feeling.
Later, we got ready for the evening theme party — retro style. We dressed in our best, trying to reflect the style of the era with whatever accessories we had. It looked like we did a decent job, as we received compliments from everyone, from the elevator to the lobby. We reached the venue already buzzing with excitement for the night.
It was wonderful meeting Mr. Prakash Ranga, who appreciated our efforts and made us feel special with his kind words. Capt. Arun Mehta, whom we crossed in the hotel lobby, also greeted us with a warm compliment. We joined the others and started enjoying the evening led by the master of ceremonies, who kept everyone engaged and having fun. We participated in a fun couples’ activity — and to our surprise, we won! Who doesn’t like winning? It was truly the icing on the cake.
It was fantastic meeting Capt. Sumit Mehra, my husband’s course mate from cadet days. I was also very happy to meet Chief Officer Atul, Chief Engineers Delick Deniz, and Ritesh Kumar, who had sailed with hubby and whom I had met onboard. Their spouses, Nargis and Jolene, joined us, and we hung around together the next day while our husbands attended the final sessions of the conference. It was a beautiful and fun night.
Watching Mr. Bindoo Jha, a complete entertainer, was another highlight — he kept everyone laughing and engaged. I also met Michelle Makasiar, a trainer from the Philippines who shares my passion for learning and development. We struck up a meaningful conversation, promising to meet again and carry our discussion further. I also got to meet Capt. Sunit, Capt. Vishvesh, Capt. Tarun, Mr. Devesh Gautam and Mr. Ajay D’Costa from L & D – I couldn’t have asked for anything better than this.
By the time the night ended, we didn’t have the energy to hit the dance floor, though the music kept playing. We retired to our room, preparing for an early start the next morning. The following day, we woke up on time, sipped coffee together, and admired the thoughtful courtesies placed by the hotel and the familiar faces around us. We reflected on the event and its impact — I joked that hubby and I had become fellow trainers over the years, not just a couple.
After breakfast, I met up with some of the ladies in our room, sharing tips and experiences. We then took a tour of the hotel, clicked pictures to preserve memories of this special event, and got to know each other better. Being older, I shared insights from my own journey, especially about the unique challenges faced by a seafarer’s spouse. Later, we enjoyed tea with the conference attendees, including the organizing team, and I had the pleasure of speaking with Mr. Ranga, Michelle, Preksha, Nayana and the girl cadets — all inspiring individuals.
We had lunch together, and then it was time to pack our bags and check out; I didn’t want to hold the room longer. Seizing the opportunity, I visited the newly opened Hilton Garden Inn nearby. I met my friend Sarika Bulsara, the Director of Sales, and the General Manager Mr. Aman Dhoundiyal. They graciously showed me around the beautiful new hotel, making good use of my time.
Later, I returned to the conference venue with hopes of connecting with more people. I was fortunate to find Michelle again, and we dived into many topics, especially – Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. It was an enlightening discussion, and I loved her passion for her work. Meeting her was especially meaningful, as my PhD research focused on DEI, making this conversation very close to my heart.
Meanwhile, hubby finally arrived after completing his training sessions, looking satisfied and rejuvenated. He shared how much he enjoyed the event and how it helped him gain new perspectives for onboard engagement. He emphasized that he wouldn’t want to miss such opportunities, appreciating the value of well planned training. We left for home not just with the bags and goodies but with equally wonderful conversation. This conference was more than an event — it was a canvas painted with stories, learning, laughter, and friendship. It reiterated the importance of community, continuous learning, growth and cherishing the simple joys of shared success. I am so grateful to OSM Thome for having us in this Officer’s Conference – another first for us!
