The National Archives of India showcases the rich legacy of the Indian community in Oman at Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas 2025
The National Archives of India (NAI) is hosting a special exhibition at Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas (PBD) 2025 to highlight the “Oman Collection – Archival Heritage of the Indian Community in Oman.” This exhibition, a collaboration between the Embassy of India in Muscat and NAI, will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who previously mentioned the project in his Mann Ki Baat in November 2024, , reported financialexpress.com.
The Oman Collection digitizes over 7,000 documents detailing the Indian community’s history in Oman
Launched in May 2024, the Oman Collection is NAI’s first overseas digitization project aimed at preserving the historical records of the Indian community in Oman. The collection includes more than 7,000 documents from prominent Indian families who have been settled in Oman for over 250 years. These records, ranging from personal diaries to business invoices, offer a unique look into the community’s cultural, social, and commercial contributions to Omani society.
The oldest document dates back to 1838, with many from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These materials encompass letters, photographs, business documents, and personal accounts reflecting the integration of the Indian community into Omani society.
The Indian diaspora in Oman, numbering nearly 700,000, has had a historical presence for over 5,000 years, with significant migration starting in the late 18th century. The families involved, including those of Ratansi Purshotam, Khimji Ramdas, and Haridas Nensey, played vital roles in trade, entrepreneurship, and cultural exchange between India and Oman.
Additionally, the NAI has included oral histories from the older generation, capturing personal migration stories and experiences that add depth to the historical records.
Arun Singhal, Director General of NAI, called the project a milestone for the Archives, making these digitized records available on NAI’s digital portal, Abhilekh Patal, for public and academic access.
This project strengthens the ties between India and Oman, with Ambassador Amit Narang emphasizing its role in preserving history and reinforcing the bond between the two nations.
***********************************************************
Readers
These are extraordinary times. All of us have to rely on high-impact, trustworthy journalism. And this is especially true of the Indian Diaspora. Members of the Indian community overseas cannot be fed with inaccurate news.
Pravasi Samwad is a venture that has no shareholders. It is the result of an impassioned initiative of a handful of Indian journalists spread around the world. We have taken a small step forward with the pledge to provide news with accuracy, free from political and commercial influence. Our aim is to keep you, our readers, informed about developments at ‘home’ and across the world that affect you.
Please help us to keep our journalism independent and free.
In these difficult times, running a news website requires finances. While every contribution, big or small, will make a difference, we request our readers to put us in touch with advertisers worldwide. It will be a great help.
For more information: pravasisamwad00@gmail.com