The longest serving warship of the world, INS Viraat was decommissioned by the Indian Navy today in a sombre yet grand ceremony at Mumbai's Naval Dockyard. The last post for INS Viraat was sounded at sunset today in the presence of more than 4500 "Viraatees", including 22 of its Commanding Officers, former Chief of Naval Staff and Guest of Honour; Chief of Royal Navy Admiral Philip Jones. <br/><br/>The Seaking and Harpoon helicopters also rose to bid their farewell as the Commissioning Pendent was lowered for the last time on board INS Viraat. <br/><br/>The Naval Ensign and Commissioning Pendent was later folded and handed over to the Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Sunil Lanba; signalling the end of the Viraat era. A Special Cover by Army Postal Service was also launched on the occasion. <br/><br/>Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Admiral Lanba said that it was a moment of pride and sorrow. Talking about the warship's future, Admiral Lanba said that he will be happy if any state comes out with a feasible proposal to convert INS Viraat into a museum. He said, sinking the ship and converting it into a major tourist attraction for divers is also one of the plans being considered. <br/><br/>When questioned about the shortfall of aircraft carriers as INS Vikrant has already been decommissioned, Admiral Lanba said that a new aircraft carrier will be inducted anytime between 2018 and 2020. <br/><br/>The Guinness Record Holder for being the longest serving warship of the world, INS Viraat had served for 30 years in the Indian Navy and 27 years in the Royal Navy. Under the Indian Flag, the ship was instrumental during Operation Parakram between India and Pakistan; apart from Sri Lankan Peace Keeping operation. Its last operational deployment was for participation in International Fleet Review in February 2016. 'Mother', as Viraat is fondly referred to in the Western Navy, had groomed around 40 naval officers, including five Chiefs of Naval Staff.