INSV Kaundinya Latest News
The Indian Navy’s pioneering stitched vessel Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Kaundinya will undertake her maiden overseas voyage. Â
About INSV Kaundinya
- It is a stitched ship which is inspired by a fifth-century vessel shown in Ajanta cave paintings.
- It is named after the legendary mariner Kaundinya, who is believed to have sailed from India to Southeast Asia in ancient times.
- It has been built using traditional stitching techniques instead of metal nails. Artisans from Kerala used coconut fibre, coir rope, wooden joinery, natural resins, and cotton sails.
- It is a joint initiative of the Indian Navy, Ministry of Culture, and Hodi Innovations.
- It features symbolic motifs like
- Gandabherunda (mythical two-headed eagle) symbol of the Kadamba dynasty and the Sun
- The bow carries a Simha Yali Â
- Harappan-style stone anchor on the deck
- Significance: INSV Kaundinya showcases India’s ancient maritime traditions. It reflects India’s historic role in trade, cultural exchange, and modern maritime diplomacy.
Who was Kaundinya?
- He is a legendary Indian mariner who sailed to Southeast Asia about 2,000 years ago.
- He married Queen Soma and founded the Funan kingdom.
Source: PIB
INSV Kaundinya FAQs
Q1: INSV Kaundinya is named after?
Ans: A legendary Indian mariner Kaundinya
Q2: What is unique about INSV Kaundinya's construction?
Ans: Use of wooden planks stitched with coconut coir rope
