Memorable Vizag moments of Iranian crew fade into tragedy at sea

Visakhapatnam: Days after making memories and participating in various events during the International Fleet Review and MILAN 2026, held between Feb 15 and 25 in Visakhapatnam, the Iranian sailors could not take these memories back home. Before their return voyage, the crew had enjoyed cultural tours under the Incredible India programme, visiting the war memorial and submarine museum, exploring landmarks such as Rushikonda Beach and Kailasagiri Hills, and touring local museums. They experienced the newly developed glass bridge and enjoyed the panoramic view of the city from the Kailsagiri. They then toured a local arts village in Visakhapatnam. Some sailors traveled to Agra to see the Taj Mahal, while others shopped for traditional textiles. Videos of the crew smiling, taking selfies with locals, and enjoying tea at the MILAN pavilion were widely shared on social media, reflecting the warmth and camaraderie of the exchange. Tragically, their return journey was cut short when a US submarine torpedoed and sank the Iranian warship IRIS Dena in international waters off the coast of Sri Lanka on Wednesday, killing several sailors. The Moudge-class frigate had nearly 180 crew members on board, including Rear Admiral Shahram Irani, Commander of the Islamic Republic of Iran Navy, and Abuzar Zarri, the ship's commanding officer, according to defense officials. Speaking to TOI, VMRDA metropolitan commissioner Pranav Gopal said that while he was inspecting development works on Kailasagiri on February 16 along with other VMRDA officials, the Iranian naval officers and staff arrived there. "They were taken to the glass bridge, where the unique features of the structure were explained. Details about several museums run under the VMRDA were also shared. On this occasion, the naval staff appreciated the way the museums are being efficiently managed by VMRDA. It was unfortunate to learn about the mishap that happened to them. They were friendly and interacted with everyone," said Pranav.