About INSV Kaundinya
- This initiative was launched in July 2023 under a tripartite agreement involving the Ministry of Culture, the Indian Navy, and Hodi Innovations.
- The Ministry of Culture funded the ship as a symbol of India’s ancient shipbuilding tradition and to promote maritime heritage awareness.
- INSV Kaundinya is scheduled to sail along the ancient maritime trade route from Gujarat to Oman later in 2025.
Traditional Shipbuilding Techniques
- The ship was constructed using ancient “stitched ship” techniques, where wooden planks are joined using coir ropes, coconut fibres, and natural resin, without metal nails.
- The design was based on a 5th-century maritime scene depicted in the Ajanta mural paintings.
- As there are no surviving blueprints, the design process involved interpreting 2D artistic representations through archaeological, naval architectural, and hydrodynamic analysis.
Symbolism and Cultural Integration
- The sails feature motifs such as the ‘Gandabherunda’ (mythical two-headed eagle) and the Sun, symbolizing strength and vitality.
- The bow is adorned with a ‘Simha Yali’ (mythical lion-like figure), reflecting traditional South Indian maritime iconography.
- A Harappan-style stone anchor on the deck connects the ship to India’s Indus Valley maritime legacy.
- Named after Kaundinya, a legendary Indian sailor who reached Southeast Asia, the ship highlights India’s role in ancient transoceanic trade and cultural exchange.
About Ajanta Paintings
- The Ajanta Caves, located in Maharashtra, date from the 2nd century BCE to the 6th century CE, and are among the earliest surviving examples of Indian mural art.
- The paintings follow the tempera technique (painting on dry plaster with pigments), using vegetable and mineral dyes like red ochre, black, and brown.
- The murals focus on Buddhist themes, such as the Jataka Tales, life of the Buddha, and Avadanas, often interwoven with nature motifs and decorative patterns.
- Figures are depicted with heavy proportions, expressive gestures, and distinctive hairstyles, showcasing emotional depth and spiritual symbolism.
