Indian Seafarers: A Brief Historic View

Cap: Indian Seafarers mastered navigation and sailing as far back as 3000 BC

Indian seafarers have a rich historical perspective that spans centuries.

Indian maritime history can be traced back to ancient times when sailors from the Indian subcontinent navigated the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea, and Bay of Bengal, engaging in trade and cultural exchanges.

During the medieval period, Indian seafarers, particularly from the south Indian states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, made significant contributions to maritime activities. They established trade links with various countries in Southeast Asia, China, and the Persian Gulf, transporting goods such as spices, textiles, and precious stones. The famous spice route, connecting India with Europe, was largely facilitated by Indian seafarers.

Moreover, Indian sailors played a crucial role in the growth of early global trade networks. They served aboard European trading vessels, forming a substantial part of the crew on European ships during the Age of Discovery. Indian sailors were particularly prominent in the Portuguese, Dutch, and British navies.

In the 19th century, the advent of steamships and the opening of the Suez Canal further increased Indian seafarers’ participation in global maritime trade. British colonialism and the growth of the British Empire resulted in a high demand for Indian sailors to serve on British ships. Indian seafarers played a significant role in connecting ports around the world, facilitating trade and transportation.

Today, Indian seafarers continue to play a vital role in the international maritime industry. India is one of the largest suppliers of seafarers globally, with a significant number employed on various types of vessels worldwide. Indian seafarers have made substantial contributions to the maritime sector, both historically and in the modern era.

More recently, Indian seafarers have stood above the rest by continuing to sail vessels in a responsible and dedicated manner during the Covid pandemic, keeping the world’s supply chains running, and transporting food, fuel & lifesaving medicines to all corners of the world.

Isn’t it time our Indian seafaring heritage and the contributions of our modern day seafarers are noted in the speeches of our honourable Prime Minister, even as mention is frequently made of persons of other professions recognized as ‘Essential Workers’ of the nation?

Marex Media

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Capt Kamal Chadha – photo and author details with you