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INSV Kaundinya completes historic journey to Muscat
The Indian Navy's handcrafted wooden sailing ship, INSV Kaundinya, arrived in Oman's Muscat port on Wednesday, greeted with a ceremonial water salute after a 17-day voyage across the Arabian Sea.
Retracing ancient maritime routes
The vessel departed from Porbandar, Gujarat, on December 29, following a millennia-old trade path that once linked India to global maritime networks. The journey marked a revival of traditional seafaring techniques.
Built with ancient methods
Constructed entirely without metal fasteners, the Kaundinya embodies centuries-old shipbuilding practices. Workers stitched together wooden planks using coir rope from coconut fibers and sealed them with natural resin. The vessel relies solely on square sails and wind power, eschewing modern engines.
Naval architects drew inspiration from a 5th-century depiction in Maharashtra's Ajanta caves - one of the few surviving visual records of early Indian seafaring. Without original blueprints, designers studied historical iconography to recreate the vessel's form.
Cultural symbols aboard
The ship features multiple nods to India's maritime heritage. Its sails display the Gandabherunda, a mythical two-headed bird representing Vishnu, alongside solar motifs. The bow carries a carved Simha Yali from South Indian lore, while a Harappan-style stone anchor adorns the deck.
"Each element evokes the rich maritime traditions of ancient India,"
Indian Navy statement
Construction and crew experiences
Built in Goa, the Kaundinya's construction began in September 2023 and concluded with its February 2025 launch. The voyage included Sanjeev Sanyal, a member of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's economic advisory council, who documented the journey on social media, including images of heavy rain sweeping the deck.
Commander Hemant Kumar, the ship's officer-in-charge, described the expedition as "exhilarating yet challenging" to reporters in Oman. The crew endured heat without air conditioning, cramped sleeping quarters, and seasickness during the 17-day passage.
Next steps
The Indian Navy has not announced plans for the vessel's return voyage to India. The Kaundinya's arrival in Muscat marks the completion of its maiden international journey.
