From Gujarat to Muscat: The Only Hindu Sheikh Who Lent Money to the Sultan of Oman

New Delhi: India and Oman share a historic relationship, highlighted during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit, where a free trade deal was signed. Amid this backdrop, the remarkable story of an Indian businessman, who earned the rare title of the world’s only Hindu Sheikh from the Sultan of Oman, comes into focus.

The Journey of India’s Only Hindu Sheikh
The title was bestowed upon Kankasi Khemji, head of the Khimji Ramdas Group, one of Oman’s most prestigious business families. This recognition traces back nearly 144 years when Khemji’s grandfather, Ramdas Thakkarse, migrated from Mandvi in Gujarat to Oman in 1870. Starting from Mandvi, the family expanded their trade to Muscat, establishing strong connections with major ports.

Khimji Ramdas Group: From Traders to Titans
The Thakkarse family were ship traders who imported grain, tea, and spices from India and exported dates, dried lemons, and frankincense from Oman. Ramdas Thakkarse’s son, Khemji Ramdas, joined him, laying the foundation of a global enterprise that remains one of Oman’s largest business groups today.

Lending to the Sultan
During an era when the Middle East had not yet discovered oil, the Khimji family even lent money to the Omani Sultan Said. Later, when Sultan Qaboos came to power, the family was granted Omani citizenship, cementing their position in the country’s social and economic fabric.

Kankasi Khemji: Leadership and Legacy
Born in Muscat in 1936, Kankasi Khemji studied in Mumbai and took over the family business from his father Gokaldas in 1970. Today, the Khimji Ramdas Group has an annual turnover exceeding $1 billion and partners with over 400 top global brands across consumer products, lifestyle, infrastructure, projects, and logistics. Sheikh Kankasi Khemji’s contributions to Oman’s economy and society earned him global recognition and the prestigious title of Hindu Sheikh.

Passing of a Legend
Kankasi Khemji passed away on 18 February 2021 at the age of 85. His leadership not only expanded the family business across India, Oman, and the UAE but also strengthened Hindu recognition and respect in Oman. The Khimji family remains a powerful and influential business dynasty with strong ties across multiple ministries in India and Oman.