The Indian Navy inducted a traditionally built stitched ship on Wednesday and christened it INSV Kaundinya at a ceremonial event held at the strategically located Karwar naval base in Karnataka. INSV Kaundinya is a recreation of a stitched ship inspired by a fifth-century design, with its construction influenced by the murals of Ajanta. The Navy showcased the vessel during the induction ceremony at Karwar, presenting it as a tribute to India’s ancient maritime practices.

Officials quoted in a PTI report described the ship as a tangible symbol of India’s enduring traditions of maritime exploration, trade and cultural exchange. They stated that the induction and naming of the vessel mark the culmination of an extraordinary project that celebrates the country's rich shipbuilding heritage. The ship is named after Kaundinya, a legendary Indian mariner who, according to tradition, sailed across the Indian Ocean to Southeast Asia.

A Navy spokesperson said, “The Indian Navy formally inducted and named the stitched ship as Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Kaundinya today at a ceremonial event held at the Karwar naval base.” The event was presided over by Union Minister of Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. The vessel includes several culturally significant elements. Her sails feature motifs of the Gandabherunda and the Sun. Her bow displays a sculpted Simha Yali, and her deck is adorned with a symbolic Harappan-style stone anchor. Each of these elements reflects the rich maritime traditions of ancient India.

The Navy stated that INSV Kaundinya will be based at Karwar and will undertake a trans-oceanic voyage later this year. The voyage will follow an ancient trade route from Gujarat to Oman. This stitched ship stands apart from modern vessels. It uses square sails and steering oars, which are entirely foreign to contemporary ships. The Navy explained that they had to reimagine and test the ship’s hull geometry, rigging, and sails from first principles.

Kaundinya, also known as Kaundinya I, was a legendary Indian merchant from the first century. He sailed to Southeast Asia and, according to folklore, married Queen Soma of Funan—a region that included large parts of present-day Cambodia. After the marriage, he ruled as the second king of Funan and is credited as the co-founder of the kingdom.