Historic Voyage INSV Kaundinya Completes Journey to Oman
The Indian Navy’s hand-stitched wooden sailing vessel, INSV Kaundinya, has successfully arrived in Oman after a remarkable 17-day journey at sea. Departing from Porbandar on December 29, the ship retraced ancient maritime routes that once connected India to the wider world. This vessel, crafted using traditional techniques, showcases India’s rich maritime heritage and cultural significance.
Traditional Craftsmanship Meets Modern Adventure
INSV Kaundinya is a testament to India’s seafaring history, built without the use of nails or metal fastenings. The ship’s construction involved stitching wooden planks together with coir rope made from coconut fiber, sealed with natural resin. This method reflects ancient practices prevalent across the Indian Ocean region. The design of the vessel draws inspiration from a 5th-century ship depicted in the Ajanta caves, one of the few visual records of early Indian maritime activity.
The ship’s sails are adorned with motifs representing the Gandabherunda, a mythical two-headed bird associated with the Hindu god Vishnu, and the sun. Additionally, the bow features a sculpted Simha Yali, a creature from South Indian folklore, while a symbolic Harappan-style stone anchor graces the deck. Each of these elements highlights the cultural significance embedded in the ship’s design, as noted by the Indian Navy.
Construction of the INSV Kaundinya began in September 2023, culminating in its launch in February 2025 in Goa. The crew included Sanjeev Sanyal, a member of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s economic advisory council, who shared updates from the voyage on social media. His posts captured the challenges faced during the journey, including heavy rains and rough seas.
Challenges and Triumphs at Sea
Commander Hemant Kumar, the officer-in-charge of the INSV Kaundinya, described the journey as both exhilarating and adventurous. The crew faced numerous challenges during their 17 days at sea, including limited sleeping arrangements and the absence of air conditioning in the heat. Despite these hardships, the crew remained resilient, navigating the vessel solely by the power of its sails and favorable winds.
Upon arrival in Muscat, the ship was greeted with a water salute, marking the successful completion of its historic voyage. The crew expressed relief and joy at returning to land after their arduous journey. As of now, the timeline for the ship’s return journey to India remains uncertain, leaving many eager to see this remarkable vessel continue its journey through history.
