Khimji Family Business
What is the historical relationship between Indians and Oman?
Indians have been trading and living in Oman for centuries, with communities from Gujarat's Kutch region playing a crucial role in establishing strong connections between the two nations. The Kimji family exemplifies this living bridge between India and Oman, representing the harmonious integration of Indian expatriates into Omani society. Today, Indians form one of the largest expatriate communities in Oman and are an integral part of the country's social fabric and economic progress. Hindi is widely understood, especially in Muscat, due to the significant Indian diaspora. As India and Oman celebrate 70 years of diplomatic ties, the historic trade connections continue to strengthen the relationship between these two countries.
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WION
02:48 - 03:44
What role do Indians play in Oman's society and economy?
Indians represent one of the largest expatriate communities in Oman and serve as a living bridge between India and Oman, exemplified by families like the Kimjis who proudly maintain connections to both countries. They have become an integral part of Oman's social fabric, contributing significantly to the nation's cultural diversity and community bonds. Beyond social integration, the Indian community continues to play a vital role in Oman's economic development and progress. Their ongoing contributions help strengthen the bilateral relationship between the two countries while supporting Oman's growth trajectory, making them essential participants in the country's advancement.
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WION
03:21 - 03:51
What is the history of the Khimji family in Oman?
The Khimji family's history in Oman dates back to 1870 when patriarch Kimji Ram Dass arrived at the port of Sur from India. Ram Dass established a business group that has now continued into its sixth generation, with Anil Khimji representing the fourth generation as an Omani citizen and family historian. The family has maintained strong ties in Oman through multiple generations, expressing gratitude to both former and current sultans for their generosity toward the family and the broader Indian diaspora. This 150-year legacy represents the enduring connection between India and Oman, which now celebrates 70 years of diplomatic relations.
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00:38 - 01:05
How did the Khimji family establish themselves in Oman?
The Khimji family's establishment in Oman began with the speaker's great-grandfather, who was a Dhow captain sailing between India and Africa transporting spices. During one of his voyages, he stopped in Muscat, Oman for provisions like food and water. Instead of continuing his journey, he made the life-changing decision to remain in Oman, instructing his crew to continue without him. This spontaneous decision in the late 1800s marked the beginning of the Khimji family's presence in Oman, eventually growing into one of the prominent Indian-origin merchant families in the country.
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01:05 - 01:26
What significant milestone in India-Oman relations is being celebrated this year?
This year marks the celebration of 70 years of diplomatic ties between India and Oman. To commemorate this important milestone, a special logo was released during Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar's visit to Oman. This celebration highlights the long-standing and enduring relationship between the two nations. The relationship includes significant contributions from the Indian diaspora in Oman, particularly families like the Khimjis who trace their roots to Gujarat and have been in Oman since 1870, playing an important role in strengthening bilateral relations through commerce and cultural integration.
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03:09 - 03:21
How has the Khimji family maintained their connection to India while building their legacy in Oman?
The Khimji family has maintained strong ties to India, particularly with Mumbai, where many family members have studied. Their 150-year-old legacy was built by successive generations including Kokal Das Khimji, Matra Das Khimji, Kanak Bhai Khimji, and continues today. This enduring connection represents the broader pattern of Indian expatriates who have integrated into Omani society while preserving their cultural roots. The family exemplifies how Indian-origin people have progressed and contributed to Oman's development while maintaining meaningful connections to their homeland.
Watch clip answer (00:27m)WION
01:46 - 02:13