A friendship beyond diplomacy: Shared heritage of India and Kuwait on display

• The 250-year friendship between India and Kuwait is not merely diplomatic — it is a unique cultural and humanitarian bond — Dr. Mohammad Al-Jassar
• The enduring bond between India and Kuwait, now celebrating 250 years, stands as a testament to a relationship that transcends diplomacy, rooted instead in shared culture, history, and humanity.
• This legacy was brought to life through the ‘Dosti Journey’ (Journey of Friendship) exhibition at Kuwait’s National Library, where Indian Ambassador H.E. Dr. Adarsh Swaika and Kuwaiti officials came together to honor centuries of mutual exchange.

Featuring rare manuscripts, documents, and artifacts from the era of Indian rupee circulation in Kuwait, the exhibition not only showcased the rich maritime trade and cultural ties dating back to the 18th century, but also served as a platform to educate future generations on the profound friendship that continues to unite the two nations.

Indian Ambassador to Kuwait, H.E. Dr. Adarsh Swaika, touched on ties between India and Kuwait during the exhibition, hosted at the National Library. The exhibition offered a rare glimpse into the shared heritage of the two nations, showcasing manuscripts, vintage documents, Indian-printed books on pearl diving, old currency, and stamps from the era when the Indian rupee was in circulation in Kuwait.

“This exhibition is a window of awareness for the younger generations about the long-standing relations between our countries,” Ambassador Dr Swaika stated. “The artifacts displayed represent only a fraction of the legacy we share with Kuwait — much of it predates the formation of our modern states.”

He traced the origins of this relationship back to the late 18th century, when Kuwaiti merchants sailed to Indian ports carrying dates, horses, and pearls, and returned with rice, spices, textiles, and timber —not only for Kuwait but for the entire Gulf region.

Dr Swaika emphasized that the exhibition aimed to educate youth in both nations about the historical depth and richness of Indo-Kuwaiti relations. He expressed gratitude to Fahad Al-Abduljaleel, President of the Kuwaiti Heritage Society, noting that his remarks to India’s Prime Minister had inspired the exhibition’s creation.

The exhibition included rare photos of official visits between the two countries, including the historic visit of Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem to India, and the recent trip by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Kuwait in December, which Dr Swaika described as a “breakthrough in high-level exchanges,” expressing hope for a reciprocal Kuwaiti visit soon.

Also speaking at the opening, Dr. Mohammad Al-Jassar, Secretary-General of the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Letters (NCCAL), said the 250-year friendship between India and Kuwait is not merely diplomatic — it is a unique cultural and humanitarian bond.

“This relationship has never been just about mutual interest,” Al-Jassar noted. “It has always reflected a rare model of understanding, coexistence, and mutual respect.”
He underscored the role of culture as a cornerstone for building people-to-people ties, stating: “From the depths of the sea to the depths of the heart, Kuwait and India have woven centuries of cultural, economic, and human exchanges.”

Al-Jassar thanked the Indian ambassador for his presence and contributions, and praised Fahad Al-Abduljaleel’s efforts in highlighting this shared history. He reaffirmed the vital role of NCCAL in supporting such initiatives, which preserve national memory and foster cultural dialogue.

On the sidelines of the event, a panel discussion brought together members of prominent Kuwaiti merchant families with historic ties to India. They shared personal stories and insights about their ancestors’ interactions with Indian traders, reflecting on how those connections laid the groundwork for enduring friendship.