New Delhi: The Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Kaundinya set off on its first international journey from Porbandar, Gujarat, to Muscat, Oman. This ship is a recreation of a 5th-century vessel, inspired by artwork from the ancient Ajanta Caves. Named after the legendary mariner Kaundinya, who reportedly navigated from India to Southeast Asia, Kaundinya highlights India’s illustrious maritime history.
The ship’s design posed unique challenges. It was inducted into the Navy during a ceremony at Karwar naval base on May 21, 2023, with Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat present.
This launch follows a project agreement signed in July 2023 between the Ministry of Culture, the Indian Navy, and Hodi Innovations. Skilled artisans from Kerala, led by master shipwright Babu Sankaran, constructed the vessel using traditional stitching techniques. Over several months, they carefully stitched wooden planks, employing materials like coir rope and natural resin. The ship was launched in February 2025.
The voyage retraces ancient trade routes that once linked India with Oman, showcasing a rich tapestry of cultural exchanges across the Indian Ocean. A Navy spokesperson emphasized the importance of this journey in reconnecting with historical ties.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated this maiden voyage on social media, highlighting the ship’s role in showcasing India’s maritime legacy. He praised everyone involved in the project for their dedication, wishing the crew a safe and memorable journey.
As the ship embarks on its journey, it symbolizes a remarkable blend of ancient craftsmanship and modern naval practices. According to Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, Kaundinya represents a “rare convergence” of history and contemporary naval expertise.
This vessel includes culturally significant motifs, like the Gandabherunda and the Sun, a sculpted Simha Yali on the bow, and a Harappan-style stone anchor on deck. These elements honor ancient Indian maritime traditions. Unlike modern ships, Kaundinya incorporates square sails and steering oars, requiring innovative design reimagining.
Naval experts noted that there were no existing blueprints for this ship, making the reconstruction a challenging but rewarding process. The design integrated archaeological insights with modern naval architecture, ensuring a unique vessel that revives India’s shipbuilding heritage.
The project was approved by the National Implementation Committee, highlighting a collective effort to celebrate this living tradition. Author and economist Sanjeev Sanyal, who supported the project, shared updates on social media, illustrating the excitement surrounding this journey.
In a time when global connections are ever-important, the INSV Kaundinya serves not just as a ship but as a bridge between the past and the present, reinforcing India’s commitment to its maritime traditions.
Source link
INDIAN NAVY, INDIA OMAN, INSV KAUNDINYA PORBANDAR TO MUSCAT, INSV KAUNDINYA, REVIVING INDIA'S ANCIENT MARITIME GLORY INSV KAUNDINYA SETS SAIL FOR MAIDEN VOYAGE TO OMAN
