Indian Navy Revives Ancient Shipbuilding: Hand-Stitched Vessel Set to Sail Historic Trade Routes

The Indian Navy is set to induct the Ancient Stitched Ship, a remarkable recreation of a 5th-century CE vessel, inspired by a painting from the Ajanta Caves. This ship was constructed using traditional methods by artisans from Kerala, led by master shipwright Babu Sankaran, who meticulously executed thousands of hand-stitched joints.

The ancient stitching technique in shipbuilding, known as the Tankai method, involved sewing wooden planks together rather than using nails. This method provided flexibility and durability, making ships more resistant to damage from shoals and sandbars. The Hand-Stitched Joints were done by artisans using ropes or strings to sew planks together, sealing them with a mix of coconut fiber, resin, and fish oil.

 

Unlike modern vessels, this ship features square sails and steering oars, requiring a unique blend of archaeological interpretation, naval architecture, and hydrodynamic testing to ensure seaworthiness. The Indian Navy collaborated with IIT Madras to validate its hydrodynamic behavior at sea.

Following its induction, the Navy plans to sail the vessel along ancient maritime trade routes, with preparations already underway for its maiden voyage from Gujarat to Oman. This initiative not only revives India's rich shipbuilding legacy but also showcases the Navy’s commitment to preserving maritime heritage.

#IndianNavy to induct & name the Ancient Stitched Ship on #21May at Naval Base, Karwar.
Reconstructed from a 5th century Ajanta painting, the ship was built using the ancient technique of stitching, with square sails & steering oars.
A rare feat in our modern shipbuilding… pic.twitter.com/cWn4EGJWac

— SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) May 20, 2025