Doha: Following the completion of the historical voyage to India, Fath Al Kheir 2 dhow yesterday left Mumbai port for Oman.
On October 24, the dhow docked at the port amid an official and popular presence of officials from Qatari and Indian sides.
In Mumbai, the dhow and its crew members were welcomed by Dr Khalid bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti, General Manager, Cultural Village Foundation-Katara; Qatari Ambassador to India Ahmed Ibrahim Al Abdullah; Governor of the state of Maharashtra Ch Vidyasagar Rao; Qatari Consul General in India Hamad bin Mohammad Al Dusari; representatives of diplomate missions and other officials.
Prior to their departure from Mumbai port, the dhow and its crew members were bid farewell by Al Dusari, Qatari Deputy Consul General Batti bin Abdullah Al Nuimi; and members of the Qatari mission.
“We are keen to pursue and follow up on the voyage and get relevant details starting from its departure from Doha until docking in Sur and its arrival in Mumbai.
“As they resume voyage to Muscat, we are longing to meet the sailors in Doha to celebrate the launch of the fifth traditional dhow festival following the accomplishment of their goal in India.”
Al Dusari said: “The importance of the journey stems from its relevance to the pillar of Qatar National Vision 2030 —preserving the Qatari Heritage and traditions.
“The voyage will be a reference for upcoming generations. It was challenging and illustrates historical ties between Qatar and India in general and Mumbai in particular for it being a trade hub.”
He praised Katara’s role in reviving the marine heritage. “This voyage recalls to our memory journeys our ancestors used to make in pursue of livelihood and trade more than 60 years ago.”
On their eight-day stay in India, dhow captain, Shipmaster Hasan Essa Al Kabbi said the voyage was very constructive and the members of the crew checked with competent parties to ensure the dhow sail in safe circumstances and good weather.
“Sailors are longing to resume the voyage as they got used to life on board the dhow within an overwhelming atmosphere of brotherhood,” he added.
The Peninsula
