The design of the stamp is made after a imago in the book on page 43, Sailing Ships and Sailing Craft by George Goldsmith-Carter
The “Mala pansi” is used to carry passengers and markets products across the River Ganges and delta.
Mainly named ‘panshi’
Carvel planking fastened with staples; sides teak, bottom ironwood; rounded hull without keel.
Long overhanging spoon bow and stern.
Single masted, lugsail-rigged.
Steered by an oar of tall, balanced rudder.
The ‘mala pansi mast is stepped in a tall tabernacle which permits it to be lowered aft when the wind fails and paddles must be used.
Some are open decked, others as seen on the stamp have the conventional palm-thatched cabin, when she are transporting passengers, rice or jute.
Crew 5 – 6 men.
Grenada 2001
Source: Aak to Zumbra by The Mariners Museum. Sailing Ships and Sailing Craft by George Goldsmith-Carter.