LAND AHOY

A life well-lived leaves footprints in unexpected places — on mountain paths in Mussoorie aboard ships anchored off Bombay High in railway compartments filled with laughter and in the quiet corners of family homes.In this heartwarming and humorous memoir a retired mariner looks back at the people places and peculiar moments that shaped him. From childhood escapades in a boarding school and Bhopal’s bustling warmth to life at sea with its storms friendships and follies to the joys and heartbreaks of parenting faith coincidences and growing older — each chapter feels like sitting with a storyteller who has mastered the art of finding wonder in the ordinary.Told with honesty gentle wisdom and a mischievous sparkle these stories explore everything from dharma to depression mango raids to maritime mishaps family bonds to unexpected miracles. The author’s voice flows with the charm of an old friend who talks easily to strangers laughs at life’s curveballs and still believes the universe has a sense of humour.This book is a celebration of memory gratitude and the small shining moments that make a lifetime. Reading it feels like travelling with a companion who reminds you that happiness often hides in the simplest things.---Sanjeev Verma spent his early years as a boarder and went on to join the Merchant Navy serving from Cadet to Chief Officer before retiring in 2020. Now a teacher of nautical subjects he guides students with hard-won wisdom. A sailor at heart and storyteller by instinct he continues to inspire.