It was the early morning of September 17, 2000. After riding out typhoon Saomai for four days, I, as fleet commander, led a formation of Indian naval ships up the overcrowded Huang-Po river to the bustling port of Shanghai. The 60-odd miles up the river were rather hair-raising. Numerous boats went by literally inches from the flagship, INS Delhi, despite the escort of an impressive array of Chinese naval patrol boats. Then our Chinese liaison officer said in flawless English, “Sir, would you like to exchange gun salutes?” The flagship was ready and I agreed to this ‘short notice request’. Just before they were to commence, the officer said, “Sir, can you please delay the salutes a little? National TV can’t get a proper shot.” The gun salutes were exchanged a few minutes later and duly recorded.

Our hosts were determined to make our visit a success. The jetty was lined up with a ceremonial band, VIPs, the entire 200-strong Indian community and, yes, national TV! Later we were given a grand dinner, where the admiral pointed to the first of two large TV sets and said, “Now this function is on Shanghai TV.” A few minutes later, he pointed to the second TV and said, “Now we are on national TV.”

It was impressive, and the hosts and guests were on their best behaviour as they basked in their celebrity status. When this moment was over, the admiral raised his glass of Mao-tai wine and said, “Now that we’re no longer on TV, let’s enjoy ourselves like good seafarers. Campay (cheers)!”

... contd.