“Sapne bade dekho, mehnat lagan se karo, safalta zaroor milegi!”
This is the story of Chief Engineer Satish Khusik, a man who started from scratch and rose to the top ranks of the merchant navy through sheer hard work and determination.
A Middle-Class Boy with Big Dreams
Satish Khusik was born in a simple middle-class family in Bihar. His father was a government employee, and his mother managed the household. Like many boys from small towns, he dreamed of a stable government job. But deep inside, he had a different passion—the sea, the giant ships, and the idea of traveling the world.
After completing Class 12th, he was at a crossroads, just like thousands of young students in India. “Kya karna chahiye? Engineering? Sarkari naukri ki tayari?” These were the common discussions in his family. His relatives advised him to prepare for railway or bank exams, but Satish wanted something different—something beyond the usual career paths.
The Turning Point: Discovering the Merchant Navy
One day, while talking to a senior from his town, he learned about the Merchant Navy—a career that offered travel, adventure, and a well-paying job. But getting in wasn’t easy. Unlike today, where multiple institutes provide guidance, back then, information was limited.
Satish decided to pursue Mechanical Engineering—a necessary step to enter marine engineering. He worked hard for four years, managing his studies while giving tuitions to support his expenses. His family wasn’t sure about this unknown career, but he remained focused.
Joining the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI)
Back then, SCI (Shipping Corporation of India) conducted its own entrance exam for marine engineers. Without any coaching or special training, Satish gave the exam with full dedication. “Ya toh safalta milegi, ya phir kuch aur sochenge,” he thought. And destiny favored the brave—he cleared the exam and joined SCI’s training center!
Training was no less than a test of patience. The discipline, the rigorous schedule, and the pressure of performing were overwhelming. Many trainees left in between, but Satish was determined to complete it. “Ek baar ship par chadh gaye, toh zindagi set hai!” he reminded himself.
First Job at Sea: Life Wasn’t Easy
His first assignment as a Junior Engineer was nothing like the glamorous life he had imagined. The heat of the engine room, long working hours, and months away from home made him question his decision. “Yeh toh bahut tough hai, par chhodna option nahi hai,” he told himself.
Every task, from fixing engines to dealing with emergencies, taught him resilience. He learned that the merchant navy wasn’t just about travel; it was about discipline, skill, and endurance.
Rising to the Top: Chief Engineer Satish Khusik
With years of dedication and experience, Satish climbed the ranks—Fourth Engineer, Third Engineer, Second Engineer, and finally, Chief Engineer! At 52 years old, he now leads the engine room of massive ships, handling machinery worth crores and mentoring young engineers.
Today, when he looks back, he feels proud of his journey—from a small-town boy with no guidance to a respected Chief Engineer in the global shipping industry.
Message for Young Aspirants
“Agar tum 12th ke baad merchant navy join karna chahte ho, toh socho mat—mehnat karo aur nikal pado!”
Satish Khusik believes that the Merchant Navy is one of the best career options for hardworking students in India. Whether you come from a big city or a small village, if you have the passion and dedication, nothing can stop you.
So, are you ready to chase your dreams and build a career at sea? 🌊🚢
“Samundar bula raha hai!” 🔥
