INSV Kaundinya: Indian Navy Inducts Ancient-Style Stitched Ship Based on Ajanta Murals

Description

The Indian Navy has officially inducted INSV Kaundinya, a meticulously reconstructed ancient stitched vessel, modeled after maritime scenes from the famed Ajanta Cave paintings. This initiative is part of a larger mission to revive and celebrate India’s seafaring legacy.

Overview Of INSV Kaundinya

Launched in July 2023, INSV Kaundinya is the product of a collaborative agreement between the Ministry of Culture, the Indian Navy, and Hodi Innovations. Funded by the Ministry of Culture, the project aims to revive India’s traditional shipbuilding practices and promote awareness of the country’s rich maritime heritage.

Later in 2025, the ship is set to embark on a historic voyage following the ancient maritime trade route from Gujarat to Oman, retracing paths once used by early Indian traders.

Reviving Ancient Shipbuilding Techniques

The INSV Kaundinya was built using traditional “stitched ship” methods, where wooden planks are bound together with coir ropes, coconut fibres, and natural resin, omitting the use of any metal nails.

As no original plans or blueprints survived, the construction relied heavily on interpretations of Ajanta murals. The team translated these 2D visuals into a functioning sea vessel through a mix of archaeological insights, naval architectural design, and hydrodynamic studies.

Cultural Symbolism In Design

The ship’s sails are adorned with ancient motifs such as the ‘Gandabherunda’, a mythical two-headed eagle symbolizing power, and the Sun, representing energy and renewal. The ‘Simha Yali’, a mythic lion-like creature carved on the ship’s bow, reflects traditional South Indian maritime aesthetics.

Adding historical depth, a Harappan-style stone anchor is placed on the deck, symbolizing India’s Indus Valley maritime tradition. The vessel is named after Kaundinya, a legendary sailor credited with reaching Southeast Asia, emphasizing India’s early influence in transoceanic trade and cultural diplomacy.

Artistic Influence: Ajanta Cave Paintings

The Ajanta Caves in Maharashtra, dating back to the 2nd century BCE to 6th century CE, are renowned for their exquisite murals that illustrate Buddhist themes. These paintings were created using the tempera technique dry plaster painted with natural pigments such as red ochre, black, and brown.

The murals often depict tales from Jataka stories, the life of the Buddha, and Avadanas, set against elaborate natural backdrops and spiritual symbolism. The figures are marked by bold expressions, flowing forms, and distinctive hairstyles, reflecting the depth of early Indian artistry.

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