INSV Kaundinya: Renaissance of India's Maritime Heritage

INSV Kaundinya was inducted into the Indian Navy on 21 May 2025 at a formal ceremony held at the Naval Base in Karwar, which is not only a naval ship but also a living example of India's ancient maritime traditions and shipbuilding art.

About INSV Kaundinya

• Introduction: INSV Kaundinya is a traditionally built stitched sail vessel equipped with square sails and steering oars unlike any modern ship. It is not only technologically unique but is also culturally very rich.
• Background: The foundation for its construction plan was laid in July 2023 through a tripartite agreement signed between the Ministry of Culture, Indian Navy and Kerala-based Hodi Innovation.
• Naming: It is named after an ancient Indian sailor named Koundinayya who is believed to have sailed from India to Southeast Asia.
  • The name symbolizes the cultural ties between India and Southeast Asia.
• Funding and construction: It was funded by the Ministry of Culture and the construction was carried out using traditional craft methods under the supervision of skilled artisans of Kerala.
• Technology and construction material used: It is a sewn sailing vessel, built using traditional shipbuilding techniques.
  • Coir rope, coconut fiber, natural resin and wooden planks have been sewn together to make this vessel.
• Design: Its design is inspired by the 5th century AD ships depicted in the murals of Ajanta Caves.
  • India was a leader in maritime trade, cultural interaction and exploration during that period. The ship is designed to relive those historic journeys.
• Cultural significance: INSV Koundinayya incorporates several cultural elements that reflect India's maritime traditions.
  • Gandaberunda and Surya figures on its sails, a lion sculpted on the bow, Yali and Harappan-style stone anchor adorn its deck.
• Upcoming mission: 
  • It will embark on a trans-oceanic voyage on the ancient trade route from Gujarat to Oman in late 2025, showcasing India's maritime heritage on the world stage.