The Masula boat, also known as a masoola or musella, is a traditional fishing boat commonly found in the Indian subcontinent. The spelling of "masula" is derived from the regional language of Telugu, where the word is pronounced as /maːsuːla/. It is often spelled as "masoola" or "musella" due to the variation in transliteration from regional languages to English. The boat's unique design, with a flat bottom and curved sides, allows it to navigate shallow waters and is still used by fishermen today.
A "Masula boat" refers to a traditional watercraft predominantly found in the coastal regions of India, specifically in the South Indian states of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha. The term derives from the Telugu word "masula," meaning "big flat stone." This type of boat is known for its unique construction technique, which involves the placement of flat stones or slabs on the bottom of the vessel to provide stability and buoyancy.
Typically, a Masula boat is made by wooden planks joined together using coir ropes, a type of natural fiber derived from the husk of coconut. The planks are then covered with tar to make the structure water-resistant. The boat has a distinctive flat-bottom design, with an elongated bow and stern. It can vary in size, ranging from small fishing boats to larger cargo vessels.
The versatility of Masula boats makes them suitable for various purposes, such as fishing, transportation of goods, or even as passenger ferries. Due to their sturdy construction and ability to navigate shallow waters, Masula boats have been widely used by fishermen and coastal communities for centuries.
While the traditional construction of Masula boats is still practiced by skilled craftsmen, modern variations incorporating fiberglass and other modern materials have emerged. Nonetheless, the masula boat remains an enduring symbol of India's maritime heritage and continues to play an important role in coastal livelihoods and waterborne transport in the region.
The word "Masula" is derived from the term "Masullah", which originates from the Indian state of Kerala, specifically the Malabar region. The term "Masula boat" refers to a traditional wooden boat used for fishing and transporting goods along the Malabar coast.
The word "Masullah" itself has uncertain origins, but it is believed to come from the Arabic word "masul", meaning "boat". This is likely due to the historical trade connections between the Arab world and the Malabar coast, leading to the adoption of certain Arabic terms into the local language.
Over time, "Masulla" or "Masula" became the term used to describe a particular type of boat that was widely used by the local communities for trade and fishing purposes. These boats are known for their unique design, which includes a pointed bow and a curved stern, allowing them to navigate through both calm inland waters and the rougher Arabian Sea.