The Indian Naval Sailing Vessel Kaundinya was ceremonially flagged in at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai on March 2, 2026 following the successful completion of her maiden overseas voyage to Muscat, Oman, marking a significant milestone in the revival of India’s ancient maritime traditions.
Sanjay Seth flagged in the vessel and described the voyage as a project of national importance that symbolises the resurgence of India’s ancient maritime knowledge systems. Addressing naval personnel, dignitaries and invited guests, he said the expedition reflected courage, resilience and a spirit of rediscovery. He encouraged young Indians to embrace adventure and innovation rooted in civilisational confidence, drawing inspiration from the country’s seafaring heritage.
The vessel’s return marked the culmination of a historic journey across the Arabian Sea in a traditionally constructed stitched sailing ship, built using techniques that date back centuries. As the vessel made her ceremonial entry into Mumbai Harbour, she was welcomed with a colourful parade of sails and a traditional water arc salute, creating an atmosphere of pride and celebration.
Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Flag Officer Commanding in Chief of the Western Naval Command, commended the crew for their exceptional dedication and professionalism in operating a square sailed, stitched wooden vessel without modern structural reinforcements. He highlighted the extensive effort involved in the project, from conceptualisation and research to design, traditional construction, crew training and execution of the voyage.
He noted that sailing such a vessel across open waters demanded meticulous planning, advanced seamanship, teamwork and endurance. The successful completion of the expedition, he said, stands as a remarkable achievement for the Indian Navy and a tribute to the expertise of all those involved.
Consul General of the Sultanate of Oman Mahboob Issa Alraisi in Mumbai was present at the ceremony, along with senior naval officers, veterans, representatives from Hodi Innovations, members of civil society, maritime community representatives, historians and sailing enthusiasts.
INSV Kaundinya is a 20 metre traditionally constructed stitched sailing vessel inspired by a 5th century CE depiction in the Ajanta Caves. Built under the supervision of the Indian Navy using ancient Indian shipbuilding techniques in which wooden planks are stitched together with coir rope and sealed with natural resins, the vessel was inducted into service in May 2025. Named after the legendary mariner Kaundinya, she represents India’s historic seafaring traditions and enduring civilisational linkages across the Indian Ocean.
The successful voyage to Muscat and return to Mumbai underscore India’s commitment to preserving its maritime heritage while inspiring future generations to explore, innovate and connect with the nation’s rich nautical past.
