The Indian Navy on Wednesday formally inducted a reconstructed stitched ship as INSV Kaundinya at the strategically important Karwar naval base in Karnataka. This ancient-style vessel pays homage to India’s historic maritime roots and honours Kaundinya, a legendary first-century Indian mariner.
Vessel Symbolises Maritime Heritage
Officials quoted in a PTI report described the ship as “a tangible symbol of India’s long-standing traditions of maritime exploration, trade and cultural exchange.” They noted that its induction marks the end of an “extraordinary project” that celebrates India’s rich shipbuilding history.
Constructed in Traditional Style
The vessel is a faithful recreation of a fifth-century ship, featuring stitched construction—an ancient technique where planks are sewn together instead of being nailed. The ship stands out for incorporating numerous culturally significant elements.
“Her sails display motifs of the Gandabherunda and the Sun, her bow bears a sculpted Simha Yali, and a symbolic Harappan style stone anchor adorns her deck, each element evoking the rich maritime traditions of ancient India,” a Navy spokesperson explained.
Ceremonial Induction at Karwar
Union Minister of Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat presided over the ceremonial induction event. The spokesperson announced, “The Indian Navy formally inducted and named the stitched ship as Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Kaundinya today at a ceremonial event held at the Karwar naval base.”
INSV Kaundinya will now be based at Karwar and is set to embark on a historic trans-oceanic voyage later this year.
Upcoming Trans-Oceanic Voyage
The Navy stated that INSV Kaundinya will trace an ancient trade route from Gujarat to Oman. This voyage will mirror historical maritime expeditions, demonstrating India’s age-old seafaring capabilities.
The stitched ship is unlike modern naval vessels. It features square sails and steering oars, designs not found on today’s ships. “The hull geometry, rigging, and sails had to be reimagined and tested from first principles,” the Navy revealed, highlighting the innovative reconstruction process.
The Legacy of Kaundinya
The ship is named after Kaundinya, a first-century Indian merchant revered in Southeast Asian folklore. As per legend, he sailed across the Indian Ocean and married Queen Soma of Funan, a kingdom that covered much of modern-day Cambodia.
After his marriage, Kaundinya became the second king of Funan and is celebrated as a co-founder of the ancient Southeast Asian kingdom. Consequently, INSV Kaundinya’s induction not only enriches the Indian Navy’s symbolic fleet but also strengthens the cultural and historical narratives of India’s maritime excellence. The vessel bridges the past and present, reminding the nation of its deep-rooted legacy on the high seas.
