In a historic initiative to revive India’s ancient maritime traditions, the Indian Navy is set to induct a traditionally built ‘Ancient Stitched Ship’ at a ceremonial event on 21 May 2025 at the Naval Base in Karwar. The Hon’ble Minister of Culture, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, will preside over the ceremony as the Chief Guest.
This unique vessel is a faithful recreation of a 5th century CE stitched ship, inspired by an ancient painting from the Ajanta Caves. Constructed entirely using traditional methods and raw materials, the ship was handcrafted by skilled artisans from Kerala, under the guidance of master shipwright Babu Sankaran. Thousands of hand-stitched joints were used to assemble the hull, without a single nail, showcasing a lost art form brought back to life.
The project is the result of a tripartite agreement signed in July 2023 between the Ministry of Culture, the Indian Navy, and M/s Hodi Innovations, with construction beginning in September 2023 and launch in February 2025 in Goa.
With no surviving physical remains or blueprints, the ship’s design was extrapolated from two-dimensional iconography, demanding an innovative interdisciplinary effort that included archaeological research, naval architecture, hydrodynamic testing, and traditional craftsmanship. The Indian Navy collaborated with IIT Madras for model testing, and also undertook in-house structural analysis to validate the wooden mast system.
Fitted with square sails, wooden spars, and traditional steering oars, the vessel has no modern analog, making it a globally unique addition to any naval fleet. Its construction marks the successful completion of the project’s first and most challenging phase: translating a historical vision into a seaworthy vessel.
Following induction, the ship will enter its second phase—a symbolic voyage along ancient maritime trade routes. The Indian Navy is preparing for a transoceanic expedition from Gujarat to Oman, reviving the spirit of India’s seafaring legacy.
This initiative not only showcases the Indian Navy’s commitment to heritage preservation, but also stands as a testament to India’s ancient shipbuilding prowess and the seamless blending of history, science, and culture in modern-day India.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
