Looking ahead, the voyage of Kaundinya underlines growing India–Oman cooperation in maritime connectivity, secure sea routes and opportunities in the blue economy
The Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Kaundinya arrived in Muscat on January 14, 2026, after completing its maiden voyage from Porbandar in Gujarat. The historic journey has been widely seen as a celebration of the shared maritime heritage of India and Oman, highlighting links that go back over 5,000 years. The voyage also holds special importance as both countries mark 70 years of diplomatic relations.
Kaundinya is no ordinary ship. It is a traditionally built stitched sail vessel, inspired by a 5th-century ship depicted in the Ajanta Cave paintings. Constructed using ancient Indian techniques, the ship does not use modern nails or metal fastenings. Instead, wooden planks are stitched together, reviving a nearly extinct shipbuilding tradition. The project was envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and executed by the Indian Navy with support from naval architects, archaeologists and master shipwrights.
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The vessel is named after Kaundinya, a legendary Indian mariner, and reflects India’s indigenous maritime knowledge and sustainable practices
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Construction began in September 2023, and the ship was inducted into the Indian Navy in May 2025
On arrival at Port Sultan Qaboos, the ship and its crew of 18 Indian Navy personnel were warmly received by India’s Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, along with senior Omani and Indian officials. Members of the Indian community in Oman turned out in large numbers, while traditional Indian and Omani cultural performances added colour to the welcome.
Speaking at the event, Sanjeev Sanyal, a member of the Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council who also sailed on the voyage, said the project aimed to reconnect people with India’s ancient seafaring past. He noted that inputs from earlier Omani reconstruction projects were also studied.
