INSV Kaundinya, the Indian Navy’s innovative stitched sailing vessel, is set to commence its first international journey on December 29. The vessel will depart from Porbandar, Gujarat, heading towards Muscat, Oman, retracing ancient maritime routes that linked India with the broader Indian Ocean region. Named after the legendary mariner Kaundinya, the ship signifies India’s historical maritime significance.
The Indian Navy revealed that INSV Kaundinya is constructed using traditional stitched-plank methods, inspired by ancient Indian ship depictions. Unlike modern ships, this vessel’s wooden planks are stitched with coconut coir rope and sealed with natural resins, reflecting India’s traditional shipbuilding practices. This technology allowed Indian sailors to undertake long voyages to various regions long before modern navigation techniques were developed.
The project, a collaboration between the Ministry of Culture and the Navy, aims to revive indigenous knowledge systems. Crafted by traditional artisans under the supervision of master shipwright Babu Sankaran, INSV Kaundinya combines historical craftsmanship with modern naval expertise. The vessel, officially named at a ceremony on May 21, is fully equipped for oceanic navigation, marking a significant milestone in celebrating India’s rich maritime heritage.
