The Indian Navy’s pioneering stitched sailing vessel INSV Kaundinya will undertake her maiden overseas voyage.
About INSV Kaundinya:
It is a stitched ship which is inspired by a fifth-century vessel shown in Ajanta cave paintings.
It is named after the legendary mariner Kaundinya, who is believed to have sailed from India to Southeast Asia in ancient times.
It has been built using traditional stitching techniques instead of metal nails. Artisans from Kerala used coconut fibre, coir rope, wooden joinery, natural resins and cotton sails.
It is a joint initiative of the Indian Navy, Ministry of Culture, and Hodi Innovations.
It features symbolic motis like
Gandabherunda (mythical two-headed eagle) symbol of the Kadamba dynasty and the Sun
The bow carries a Simha Yali
Harappan-style stone anchor on the deck
Significance: INSV Kaundinya showcases India’s ancient maritime traditions. It reflects India’s historic role in trade, cultural exchange, and modern maritime diplomacy.
Who was Kaundinya?
He is a legendary Indian mariner who sailed to Southeast Asia about 2,000 years ago.
He married Queen Soma and founded the Funan kingdom.
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