The Governor of Maharashtra, Shri Ramesh Bais, unveiled a significant literary work titled ‘Gateways to the Sea: Historic Ports and Docks of Mumbai Region’ at a prestigious ceremony held at Raj Bhavan Mumbai on Saturday, June 22, 2024. Published by the Publications Division of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, this compilation is a collaborative effort of the Maritime Mumbai Museum Society (MMMS), featuring 18 scholarly articles by renowned authors.
The book launch event at Durbar Hall in Raj Bhavan was graced by Governor Shri Ramesh Bais, who commended MMMS for their diligent efforts in compiling authoritative accounts of Mumbai’s maritime history. The Governor felicitated the MMMS team, including the 17 authors and two editors, for their meticulous research and contributions towards preserving and promoting Mumbai’s rich maritime heritage.
During his address, Governor Shri Ramesh Bais emphasized the importance of understanding Mumbai’s ancient maritime legacy and encouraged citizens to delve into their city’s historical roots. The presentation highlighted the book’s comprehensive coverage of ports and docks such as Sopara, Vasai, Versova, Mahim, Kalyan, Thane, Panvel, Alibag, Chaul, Mandad, and Janjira, offering insights contributed by historians, researchers, maritime experts, conservation architects, and writers.
“This book is a testament to the profound maritime history of Mumbai, spanning from ancient times to the development of modern ports like Mazagon Dock, Mumbai Port, Bombay Dock, Sassoon Dock, and Ferry Wharf,” stated Governor Shri Ramesh Bais, underscoring the publication’s role in raising awareness and appreciation for Mumbai’s maritime evolution.
The event was attended by distinguished personalities including Captain KD Bahl, President of MMMS, Vice Admiral (Retd) Indrasheel Rao, Vice President Anita Yewale, Editor Dr. Shefali Shah, and Sangeeta Godbole, Deputy Director of Publications Division, who all contributed to the book’s scholarly content.
The compilation of ‘Gateways to the Sea’ stands as a pivotal milestone in documenting and preserving Mumbai’s maritime legacy, offering a comprehensive resource for historians, researchers, and history enthusiasts alike. The book’s launch signifies a collective effort towards celebrating and safeguarding India’s maritime heritage for future generations.
In conclusion, the release of ‘Gateways to the Sea: Historic Ports and Docks of Mumbai Region’ underlines Governor Shri Ramesh Bais’s commitment to promoting cultural heritage and historical understanding in Maharashtra. The book’s meticulous research and insightful narratives promise to enrich the discourse on Mumbai’s maritime history and inspire further exploration into the city’s past.
