Gujarat-Oman Connection
What is the historical relationship between India and Oman?
Indians have been trading and living in Oman for centuries, with the trading community from Gujarat's Kutch region playing an important role in establishing strong people-to-people connections between the two countries. This relationship has led to significant cultural influence, with Hindi being widely understood in Oman, especially in the capital Muscat, due to the large Indian diaspora. In 2023, India and Oman celebrated 70 years of diplomatic ties, marking the formal establishment of relations between the two nations. During Indian Foreign Minister S.J. Shankar's visit to Oman, a special commemorative logo was released to honor this milestone in their enduring relationship.
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WION
02:48 - 03:18
What role do Indians play in Omani society?
Indians form one of the largest expatriate communities in Oman and serve as a living bridge between the two nations, exemplified by families like the Khimjis who are proud of this connection. They have become an integral part of Oman's social fabric, seamlessly integrating into the society while maintaining their cultural identity. Beyond social integration, the Indian community continues to make significant contributions to Oman's economic development and progress. Their presence spans multiple generations, with some families like the Khimjis now being fourth-generation Omani citizens, demonstrating the deep-rooted and enduring relationship between India and Oman.
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03:19 - 03:44
What is the history and legacy of the Khimji family in Oman?
The Khimji family, one of Oman's most prominent business dynasties, traces its roots to Kutch, India. The family patriarch, Kimji Ramdas, arrived at the port of Sur in Oman in 1870, establishing what would become a multi-generational business legacy that continues today into its sixth generation. Anil Khimji, a fourth-generation family member and Omani citizen, represents the family's successful integration into Omani society. The family expresses gratitude to Oman's former and current sultans for their generosity toward both the Khimji family and the broader Indian diaspora, highlighting the strong historical connections between Oman and India.
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00:29 - 01:02
What role has the Indian diaspora played in strengthening ties between India and Oman?
The Indian diaspora has made significant contributions to Oman by establishing deep cultural and economic connections. Many Indian-origin merchant families have settled permanently in Oman, with prominent examples like the Khimji family who arrived from Gujarat in the 1800s and established lasting legacies that continue today through their descendants. These families have become integral to Oman's social and economic fabric while maintaining their Indian heritage. As India and Oman celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations, these Indian-origin Omanis continue to serve as important bridges between the two nations, strengthening bilateral ties through their ongoing connections with India.
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00:00 - 00:17
How have Indian origin nationals been received and integrated into Omani society?
Indian origin nationals in Oman have experienced remarkable integration, characterized by mutual respect and absence of discrimination. As Kiran Asher describes, Indians and Omanis mingle harmoniously 'like one family,' with many Indian families having established deep roots in Oman over generations. Asher emphasizes that Indians have been treated equally and respectfully, creating a sense of belonging that makes Oman feel like home. He uses the metaphor of milk and sugar mixing together to illustrate how seamlessly the two cultures have blended, reflecting the beautiful relationship between the communities where cultural differences are celebrated rather than divisive.
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02:02 - 02:48
How would you describe the relationship between Indian origin nationals and Omanis?
According to Kiran Asher, the relationship between Indian origin nationals and Omanis is characterized by mutual respect and beautiful harmony. He compares their integration to milk and sugar mixing together perfectly, highlighting how these communities mingle like one family without discrimination or disrespect. Indian families, particularly those with long histories in Oman, have been treated equally and made to feel at home. This relationship has allowed Indian origin nationals to progress and establish themselves comfortably in Oman, creating a sense of belonging where cultural differences blend seamlessly rather than divide.
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WION
02:02 - 02:48