Mumbai, India — INSV Kaundinya, the Indian Naval Sailing Vessel, will be ceremonially flagged into Mumbai Harbour on 2 March 2026 by the Minister of State for Defence, Shri Sanjay Seth, marking the successful culmination of a historic maritime mission.
This event celebrates the vessel’s maiden overseas voyage to the Sultanate of Oman and its triumphant return across the Arabian Sea, underscoring India’s rich maritime legacy and enduring cultural ties with the Arabian region.
What Is INSV Kaundinya?
INSV Kaundinya is a unique, traditionally constructed sailing vessel of the Indian Navy, built using ancient Indian stitched shipbuilding techniques. Wooden planks are hand-stitched together with coir rope and sealed with natural resins, reflecting centuries-old craftsmanship focused on flexibility and resilience at sea.
The ship’s design draws inspiration from maritime depictions found in the Ajanta Caves, believed to represent vessels used along India’s coast over a millennium ago.
INSV Kaundinya: Historic Maiden Voyage Across Ancient Trade Routes
The vessel departed Porbandar, Gujarat on 29 December 2025, retracing ancient Indian Ocean trade routes that historically linked the Indian subcontinent with West Asia and the Arabian Peninsula. After braving open seas for nearly two weeks, INSV Kaundinya reached Port Sultan Qaboos, Muscat, Oman, on 14 January 2026, where it was received with ceremonial honours in the presence of Omani dignitaries and members of the Indian diaspora.
During its stay in Muscat, the vessel served as a floating cultural ambassador, open to visitors and symbolising shared maritime heritage and historical trade linkages—especially in spices, textiles, and navigation traditions.
A Symbol of Maritime Heritage and Diplomacy
Named after Kaundinya, a legendary Indian mariner known in ancient maritime lore, the sailing vessel is more than a naval project—it’s a living tribute to India’s oceanic legacy. Its journey underscores:
- Revival of ancient shipbuilding traditions
- India–Oman historical and cultural bonds
- India’s role in maritime heritage and soft power diplomacy
- Innovative fusion of traditional craftsmanship and modern naval validation
The flag-in ceremony in Mumbai will not only mark the successful completion of this remarkable voyage but also affirm India’s commitment to preserving and showcasing its civilisational knowledge systems and maritime connectivity across the Indian Ocean region.
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