Sehwag said he was not surprised by New Zealand's revival.
"We knew it was a good track (even) at 23 for three, and that someone will get a hundred here," Sehwag said.
Taylor's innings of 262 minutes and 204 balls was still the foundation of New Zealand's strong position at stumps on day one. He had come to the crease when New Zealand was in the throes of its early collapse and was the first batsman to offer resistance to India's attack.
"I think I was a bit more nervous than normal," Taylor said. "I haven't had a score for a while in the test arena so I was happy to get one today.
"I put a lot of pressure on myself with goals and high standards and the way I've played over the last few months hasn't lived up to those standards. This wasn't the best hundred I've got but it was good to get there."
Taylor praised Ryder's contribution.
"A lot credit has to go to Jesse," he said. "I think he played outstandingly well and to still be there, after over six hours, he's been great.
"He played a big part in my innings today. He kept me going and I have to thank him."
Ryder and Taylor batted for more than two full sessions to change the course of the opening day and to answer captain Daniel Vettori's call on batsmen to occupy the crease for long periods.
It was a message lost on New Zealand's top order as Tim McIntosh was out, unluckily, for 12, Jamie How for 1 and Martin Guptill for 8.
