INSV Kaundinya Begins Maiden Overseas Voyage to Oman

• INSV Kaundinya has begun its maiden overseas voyage to Oman.
• The vessel is a stitched sailing ship built using traditional Indian shipbuilding techniques.
• The construction method used is the Tankai method, which is believed to date back to the 5th century CE.
• The voyage highlights India’s ancient maritime heritage and seafaring traditions.

Naming Significance

• The ship is named after Kaundinya, a legendary Indian mariner.
• Kaundinya is historically associated with maritime voyages from India to Southeast Asia.

Design and Inspiration

• INSV Kaundinya is modeled on ships depicted in the Ajanta Cave Paintings.
• The reference artwork comes specifically from Ajanta Cave No. 17.
• These paintings were used because no original blueprints of such ancient vessels survive.

Construction and Collaboration

• The ship was built under a tripartite agreement signed in 2023.
• The agreement involves the Ministry of Culture, the Indian Navy, and Hodi Innovations.
• The project was funded by the Ministry of Culture.

Technical Features of the Vessel

• INSV Kaundinya does not have an engine, unlike modern naval vessels.
• The ship relies entirely on wind power through sails for propulsion.

Nature and Purpose of the Ship

• INSV Kaundinya is owned and operated by the Indian Navy.
• Despite naval ownership, it is not a combat vessel.
• The ship serves cultural, historical, and maritime heritage purposes.

Tankai Method of Shipbuilding

• The Tankai method is a traditional Indian shipbuilding technique.
• It involves no use of metal components.
• Wooden planks are stitched together instead of being nailed.
• Coir rope, derived from coconut fibre, is used for stitching.
• Natural resin is used as a fastening and sealing material.
• In this method, the hull is stitched first.
• Internal ribs are added later to strengthen the structure.
• This design provides high structural flexibility.
• The flexibility allows the ship to absorb powerful ocean waves instead of cracking under pressure.

Cultural Symbols on INSV Kaundinya

• Gandabherunda is depicted on the vessel.
  • Gandabherunda is a two-headed eagle associated with the Kadamba dynasty.
  • It symbolizes power and protection.
• Sun motifs on the sails are prominently featured.
  • These motifs represent vitality, divinity, navigation, and auspicious beginnings.
• A Simha Yali is placed on the bow of the ship.
  • Simha Yali is a mythical lion-like creature symbolizing strength and guardianship.
• A Harappan-style stone anchor is placed on the deck.
• The anchor pays tribute to the Indus Valley maritime trade networks.
• It also reflects early anchoring technology used in ancient India.