There was no decline of trade. It is held that trade was basically and exclusively a private enterprise orgainsed by the merchants and mercantile guilds throughout the period and hence fluctuating political fortunes of the ruling families of Kalinga did not necessarily affect in the progress and retardation of the maritime activities of its people. Although inheritors of ancient seafarers changed their profession over the time due to decline in trade contacts yet the traditions are being maintained in the region in form of cultural festivals.
As a matter of fact such a study presupposes a brief general discussion at the outset. Right from the prehistoric times, India has been approachable by sea from West, South and Southeast and the Southern peninsula had a natural inclination for seafaring activity. The Vedic literature refers to the boats, ships and sea voyages. The Rig Veda refers to Varuna, the Lord of the sea. It is learnt that the Vedic people were knowledgeable about the ocean and use of ships and boats. It also mentions merchants plying ships to foreign countries in quest of wealth. The Rig Veda states that the merchants knew no bounds, not even the ocean, and that they went everywhere in search of wealth. There is also a passage which gives a graphic account of a naval expedition undertaken by one Bhujyu, the son of King Tugra. Further this prayer in the Rig Veda is self-explanatory, "O Lord, take us in a ship across the ocean for our well-being".
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