As INSV Tarini continues its ambitious global circumnavigation under the Navika Sagar Parikrama II, the vessel’s two courageous sailors, Lt. Cdr. Dilna and Lt. Cdr. Roopa, extended their heartfelt wishes on the occasion of International Women’s Day. Their inspiring messages celebrated the strength, resilience, and unity of women worldwide.
In a video release, Lt. Cdr. Dilna said, “To all the strong women in my life and around the world, wishing you a very happy International Women’s Day. Today we celebrate our strength and resilience. Each one of you has inspired and motivated me, making a difference in my life. Let us remember that our voice matters, our story matters, and our presence matters. Never let anyone bring you down. Stand together—independent, respectful, and supportive. As I sail along with Roopa, we remind ourselves of the power of women’s friendship and strength.”
Adding her voice to the message, Lt. Cdr. Roopa said, “To all the mothers, aunts, friends, and colleagues—you have made a difference in my life, igniting a spark in me that has driven me to chase my dreams. You have given me the strength and courage to grow from a girl to a woman and break stereotypes along the way. I want you to remember your worth and your potential. Prioritize yourself, and everything else will fall into place.”
The Navika Sagar Parikrama II is a powerful testament to the evolving role of women in the Indian Navy and their ever-growing empowerment. This extraordinary circumnavigation of the globe by a two-woman crew underscores the changing times and the Indian Navy’s commitment to breaking barriers.
Lt. Cdr. Dilna and Lt. Cdr. Roopa embarked on this historic voyage in October 2024 aboard INSV Tarini. Their journey has been nothing short of remarkable, overcoming storms and violent seas while carrying the hopes and dreams of an entire nation. “They have braved storms and survived violent seas, bearing the dreams of the whole nation. While the world watches with awe, these two officers have demonstrated the true spirit of womanhood and the heights women can achieve. Dilna and Roopa’s brave effort will continue to inspire thousands of Indian women who aspire to make their mark in history,” the Indian Navy said in a statement.
The voyage has seen incredible challenges and milestones. On February 18, INSV Tarini entered Port Stanley, completing the third and most demanding phase of their circumnavigation. This phase included navigating three cyclones and passing through Point Nemo—the Oceanic Pole of Inaccessibility—along with the treacherous Drake Passage before successfully crossing Cape Horn.
As of March 6, the vessel had departed Port Stanley and was en route to Cape Town, continuing its inspiring journey across the globe. Lt. Cdr. Dilna and Lt. Cdr. Roopa’s determination and courage stand as a beacon of empowerment and resilience, celebrating the boundless potential of women everywhere.