Project Overview
- INSV Kaundinya, a stitched sail ship, has been formally inducted by the Indian Navy at Karwar Naval Base.
- It is a recreation of a 5th-century vessel depicted in Ajanta cave paintings.
- Project executed under a tripartite agreement (July 2023) between:
- Union Culture Ministry (funding),
- Indian Navy (technical oversight),
- Hodi Innovations (construction agency).
Relevance : GS 1(Culture ,Heritage)
Construction Details
- Traditional ‘stitching’ method used:
- Wooden planks stitched with coir rope, coconut fibre, and natural resin.
- Team led by master shipwright Babu Sankaran from Kerala.
- Keel laid in Sept 2023, launched in Feb 2025 (Goa).
- Fully handcrafted, reflecting ancient Indian shipbuilding skills.
Historical & Cultural Significance
- Named after Kaundinya, a legendary Indian mariner, symbolising India’s maritime heritage.
- Aimed at reviving ancient shipbuilding techniques and showcasing India’s cultural legacy in naval craftsmanship.
- Art-to-vessel transformation: Based solely on 2D Ajanta iconography, as no physical blueprints or models exist.
Technological Innovation
- Features square sails and steering oars, uncommon in modern ships.
- Hull geometry, rigging, and sail mechanics were developed from first principles.
- Design and performance validated through hydrodynamic testing at IIT-Madras (Ocean Engineering Dept.).
Upcoming Voyage
- A transoceanicexpedition is planned along ancient trade routes:
- Route: Gujarat → Oman.
- Purpose: Recreate historic maritime links and demonstrate seaworthiness of traditional Indian ships.
Strategic and Symbolic Importance
- Highlights India’s soft power through cultural diplomacy.
- Enhances the Navy’s role as custodian of maritime heritage.
- Serves as a platform to educate and inspire on India’s ancient seafaring achievements.
