Historic Voyage Complete: INSV Kaundinya Arrives in Muscat After 18-Day Journey
Image Source: Internet
India's historic sailing voyage has reached its final destination as the INSV 'Kaundinya' docked in Muscat, Oman, after an 18-day journey at sea. Led by Commander Vikas Sheoran, the 16-member crew successfully navigated the vessel, inspired by ancient Indian ship designs, to the Arabian Peninsula. The project, spearheaded by Prime Minister's Economic Advisory Council member Sanjeev Sanyal, aimed to recreate a 5th-century CE ship depicted in the Ajanta Caves. A tripartite agreement between the Ministry of Culture, the Indian Navy, and Hodi Innovations, a Goa-based private boat builder, facilitated the construction of the ship using traditional methods and materials. A team of skilled artisans from Kerala, led by master shipwright Babu Sankaran, painstakingly stitched wooden planks on the ship's hull using coir rope, coconut fibre, and natural resin. The ship's design features traditional Indian elements, including motifs of the Gandabherunda and the Sun, a sculpted Simha Yali on the bow, and a Harappan-style stone anchor on the deck. INSV Kaundinya is a testament to India's rich maritime history and its long-standing traditions of exploration, trade, and cultural exchange. The ship is named after Kaundinya, the legendary first-century Indian mariner who sailed across the Indian Ocean to the Mekong Delta. As it arrived in Muscat, the crew was met with congratulations from fellow sailors, including retired Naval Commander Abhilash Tomy, who praised their achievement. The successful voyage of INSV Kaundinya marks a significant milestone in India's maritime heritage, showcasing the country's ability to blend traditional craftsmanship with modern navigation techniques.
