Indian Navy to induct traditional built ancient stitched ship

In a historic move to celebrate India’s maritime past, the Indian Navy will formally induct a reconstructed ancient stitched ship during a grand ceremony on May 21, 2025 at the Naval Base in Karwar. Minister of Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat will preside over the ceremony as the Chief Guest, formally marking the induction of the ship into Indian Navy.

This unique vessel is a modern recreation of a 5th-century CE ship, inspired by a mural from the renowned Ajanta Caves. The initiative began in July 2023 under a tripartite agreement between the Ministry of Culture, the Indian Navy, and M/s Hodi Innovations, with cultural ministry funding. The keel of the ship was laid on 12 September 2023.

More Details

The Indian Navy has led this ambitious heritage project from conception to completion, partnering with traditional shipwrights and M/s Hodi Innovations. With no surviving models or blueprints, designers relied solely on artistic depictions to conceptualize the ship. This required a rare blend of naval engineering, archaeological interpretation, traditional craftsmanship, and scientific testing.

Key Features 

Unlike modern ships, the stitched vessel features hand-sewn hull planks, square sails, and traditional steering oars. The design was validated through hydrodynamic testing in collaboration with IIT Madras, while the wooden mast system underwent structural assessments without the use of modern materials.

Each decision was carefully balanced to ensure historical integrity while maintaining seaworthiness. The result is a fully functional, sea-worthy ship that faithfully echoes India’s ancient maritime craftsmanship — a first-of-its-kind in the modern era.

Following its induction, the ship will embark on an ambitious second phase: navigating historic sea routes. Its first planned voyage is a transoceanic expedition from Gujarat to Oman, retracing the paths of ancient Indian traders.

This initiative not only revives India’s rich seafaring traditions but also showcases the Indian Navy’s dedication to preserving and bringing alive the legacy of the nation’s maritime history.