Indian Navy to Induct Traditionally Built ‘Ancient Stitched Ship’
The Indian Navy is set to unveil the Ancient Stitched Ship during a ceremonial event on May 21, 2025, at the Naval Base in Karwar. The ceremony will be presided over by the Honโble Minister of Culture, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, marking a significant milestone in India’s maritime heritage. This unique vessel, inspired by a 5th-century ship depicted in the Ajanta Caves, represents a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Culture, the Indian Navy, and M/s Hodi Innovations, showcasing traditional shipbuilding techniques.
Construction and Design of the Stitched Ship
The Ancient Stitched Ship is a remarkable recreation of a historical vessel, constructed entirely using traditional methods. The project commenced with a tripartite agreement signed in July 2023, which laid the groundwork for its development. The keel of the ship was laid on September 12, 2023, and construction was led by master shipwright Shri Babu Sankaran and a team of artisans from Kerala. These skilled craftsmen executed thousands of hand-stitched joints, ensuring the ship’s authenticity and adherence to ancient techniques. The ship was officially launched in February 2025 at M/s Hodi Shipyard in Goa.
The design process posed unique challenges, as there were no surviving blueprints or physical remnants of similar vessels. The team had to extrapolate the design from two-dimensional artistic representations, requiring a blend of archaeological research, naval architecture, and traditional craftsmanship. The Indian Navy collaborated with the Department of Ocean Engineering at IIT Madras to conduct model testing, validating the ship’s hydrodynamic behavior at sea. This interdisciplinary approach was crucial in creating a vessel that is both historically accurate and seaworthy.
Innovative Features and Historical Significance
The Ancient Stitched Ship is unlike any modern naval vessel, featuring square sails and steering oars that reflect ancient maritime practices. The hull geometry, rigging, and sails were reimagined based on historical interpretations, leading to a design that balances authenticity with functionality. The ship’s construction involved innovative techniques while remaining true to the maritime traditions of ancient India. The combination of a stitched hull, wooden spars, and traditional steering mechanisms makes this vessel a unique addition to the Indian Navy’s fleet.
The successful completion of the ship’s construction marks a significant achievement in reviving India’s rich shipbuilding legacy. It not only highlights the craftsmanship of traditional artisans but also emphasizes the Indian Navy’s commitment to preserving and operationalizing the living traditions of India’s maritime heritage. The project serves as a testament to the nation’s dedication to honoring its historical roots while embracing modern naval capabilities.
Future Endeavors and Maiden Voyage
Following the induction of the Ancient Stitched Ship, the Indian Navy will embark on an ambitious second phase of the project. This phase will involve sailing the vessel along traditional maritime trade routes, aiming to revive the spirit of ancient Indian seafaring. Preparations are already underway for the ship’s maiden transoceanic voyage from Gujarat to Oman, which promises to be a historic journey.
This initiative not only aims to showcase the ship’s capabilities but also seeks to educate and inspire future generations about India’s maritime history. The project represents a fusion of art, culture, and engineering, bringing to life a fully functional sea-going vessel from an artistic depiction. The successful completion of the Ancient Stitched Ship stands as a proud moment for the Indian Navy and a significant step in celebrating India’s maritime heritage.
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