Reviving ancient maritime glory: INSV Kaundinya embarks on maiden voyage to Oman

Ahmedabad: In a symbolic return to India's seafaring past, the Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Kaundinya on Monday embarked on her maiden overseas voyage from Porbandar in Guajrat to Muscat in Oman, marking a key step in the Navy's effort to revive and showcase the country's ancient maritime traditions.Built using traditional stitched-plank techniques, Kaundinya is the Indian Navy's first sailing vessel constructed entirely with methods and materials believed to be used centuries ago. The expedition, described by defence officials as a "living ocean voyage", seeks to reconnect modern India with historic sea routes that once linked the subcontinent to the Arabian peninsula.The vessel was formally flagged off in the presence of senior naval officials and the Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to India. Officials said the voyage underlines the growing emphasis on maritime heritage as part of India's broader maritime outlook.Measuring 65-feet in length, INSV Kaundinya was crafted using natural fibres and stitched construction, without the use of metal nails. The design draws inspiration from ancient depictions of Indian ships found in historical texts and archaeological records, reflecting a blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary naval knowledge.With a crew of 18 sailors on board, the vessel is expected to cover around 1,400 km over 15 days before reaching the coast of Oman. The route retraces ancient maritime corridors that once enabled trade, cultural exchange and sustained civilisational contact between India's western coast and the Arab world.Defence officials said the voyage was expected to strengthen India-Oman relations by highlighting shared maritime heritage and reinforcing cultural and people-to-people ties. The arrival of Kaundinya in Muscat was projected as a symbol of long-standing friendship, mutual trust and respect between the two nations.The expedition also brings into focus Gujarat's historic links with Oman, rooted in centuries of trade and navigation across the Indian Ocean. Through this journey, the Indian Navy aims to highlight maritime diplomacy, heritage preservation and regional cooperation.