INSV Kaundinya: Reviving India’s Maritime Heritage
The INSV Kaundinya, a stitched sailing vessel built by the Indian Navy using traditional techniques, has embarked on its maiden voyage from Porbandar, Gujarat, to Muscat, Oman. This journey aims to retrace ancient maritime trade routes that historically linked India with regions across the Indian Ocean, showcasing India’s rich maritime heritage and shipbuilding skills. The vessel, constructed from wooden planks stitched with coconut coir rope and natural resins, draws inspiration from a 5th-century model depicted in the Ajanta Caves.
Built by skilled artisans from Kerala under the guidance of master shipwright Babu Sankaran, INSV Kaundinya employs the unique Tankai method, which avoids metals entirely. Measuring 19.6 meters long and crewed by about 15 trained sailors, the vessel is designed for open-ocean navigation, demonstrating the sophistication of ancient naval architecture. The Indian Navy supervised its design and construction, integrating knowledge from archaeology and hydrodynamic testing.
INSV Kaundinya is not merely a maritime craft; it embodies India’s enduring connection to the sea. Its sails feature motifs symbolizing strength, while a stone anchor signifies the country’s rich seafaring traditions. Named after Kaundinya, a mariner revered for his historical voyages, the vessel stands as a testament to India’s cultural exchanges and maritime legacy.
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