Navy Officer Homi Motivala: Sailing India to Global Recognition in Yachting
From the High Seas to National Glory, Motivala’s Life Exemplifies Dedication to Sport and Service
New Delhi: June 17, 2025
Commander Homi Dady Motivala, a decorated officer of the Indian Navy and one of India’s most accomplished yachtsmen, stands as a towering figure in the fields of sports and military service. Born on June 18, 1958, Motivala’s life story is a compelling tale of patriotism, perseverance, and sporting excellence.
Motivala completed his schooling from Bombay Scottish High School before joining the prestigious National Defence Academy. He graduated from NDA in 1978 and was commissioned into the Indian Navy on July 1, 1979. His naval career would run parallel to his rising prominence in Indian yachting.
Making Waves in Indian Sailing
While serving as a naval officer, Motivala emerged as a top-tier competitor in yachting. Representing the Yachting Association of India, he was part of the national team that clinched the National Team Championship titles multiple times—in 1983, 1984, 1986, 1987, 1990, and 1991.
His international sailing accomplishments were even more remarkable. Alongside fellow sailor PK Garg, he won bronze medals at the Asian Games in 1990 (Beijing) and 1994 (Hiroshima) in the Enterprise class. The duo went on to make history by winning the gold medal at the 1993 World Enterprise Championships held in Zimbabwe, putting India on the global yachting map.
The Government of India honoured Homi Motivala with the Arjuna Award in 1993 for his excellence in the sport of sailing. His exceptional achievements were further acknowledged when he received the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award (now Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna) in 1994-95—India’s highest sporting honour. That same year, he was also conferred the Shaurya Chakra, a prestigious military decoration awarded for valor, courageous action, or self-sacrifice.
A Mentor to the Next Generation: Homi Motivala
After retiring from competitive sailing, Motivala devoted himself to coaching and nurturing young talent. Between 1999 and 2008, he served as the Yachting Association of India’s Chief National Coach, mentoring the country’s top talent. Under his mentorship, India delivered a remarkable performance at the 2002 Asian Games, which earned him the Dronacharya Award, the country’s top award for sports coaching.
From Naval Command to Entrepreneurial Waters
Motivala continued to serve the Indian Navy in senior roles until 2008, retiring at the rank of Captain. Today, he remains connected to the sport through his entrepreneurial venture, supplying yachting equipment and promoting sailing across India.
A Life of Legacy and Leadership
Commander Homi Dady Motivala’s legacy is a shining example of how one individual can serve their nation with distinction both in uniform and on the field. His story is a powerful reminder that excellence in sport and dedication to national service can go hand in hand, inspiring generations of Indians to aim higher—on land and at sea.
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