In a rare occasion, 2 ace personalities of Maritime Association of Shipowners Shipmanagers and Agents (MASSA) and Maritime Training and Research Foundation (MTRF) got retired at the same time. Capt Prashant Rangnekar and Capt Vivek Bhide, Directors of MASSA as well as Trustees of MTRF said their good byes MASSA after years working for the betterment of the association. During their tenure MASSA had seen an enormous growth.  MASSA organized a retirement party for them at Hotel Sahara Star, Mumbai on 17th March. Capt Shiv Halbe, CEO, MASSA said it is very rare that 2 person is retired on the same day.

“It is difficult to say goodbye to 2 stalwarts at the same time,” said Mr Maneesh Pradhan, Chairman, MTRF. He described Capt Bhide as a man who had his gravity and the one who has exponentially grown. “You both will always be there as a guiding line for MASSA,” stated Mr Pradhan.  

“I am happy and proud to be associated with Capt Bhide for 15 years; he is an inspiration, a true leader and the one who has brought in family culture in office. We are already missing his presence in our office.” said Capt Mohan Das, Teekay.

Capt MP Bhasin, Chairman, MASSA, lauded Capt Rangnekar for the way he had handled turbulence and stood with the industry during the COVID period as well as 12 years of service in MASSA. “Capt Rangnekar is good when it comes to managing the time so efficiently. Agreeing with Capt Bhasin, Capt Girish Phadnis, KAE Maritime Services also appreciated Capt Rangnekar for maintaining a healthy relationship in the office.

Capt Rangnekar and Capt Bhide were overwhelmed by the love just showered upon them and they tossed a champagne bottle together, symbolizing their new beginning in their journey called life.

Both were presented with a medal and a memento that showcased the years of hardwork in the association.

“22 years of excellent journey in MASSA. MASSA will do much more than what they have achieved today,” said Capt Bhide. “Every day was a new day for me in MASSA,” opined Capt Rangnekar. He credited his success to all his colleagues with whom he was able to make MASSA a leading association. 

The members of MASSA assured that they will always disturb them in future as they are needed for the next generation officers. 

By wishing them a happy and healthy days ahead; the MASSA members cherished their days working with both the captains. 

Marex Media