In Muslim-majority Oman, the Gulf’s Oldest Hindu Temple Thrives with Lord Shiva and Krishna

New Delhi: Oman, a trusted ally of India in the Gulf, is home to a flourishing Hindu community, constituting approximately 5.5% of the country’s population. Among the most notable sites is the Motishwar Temple in Muscat, one of the oldest Hindu temples in the Gulf, dedicated to Lord Shiva, alongside a Krishna temple also located in the city.

Historic Roots of Hinduism in Oman

Hinduism first arrived in Oman in 1507 when traders from Kutch, Gujarat, settled in Muscat. Over centuries, Indian communities have contributed significantly to Oman’s economy, engaging in trade of pearls, grains, and other commodities. Today, many Indians hold prominent positions and continue to strengthen economic ties between India and Oman.

According to Wikipedia, by the early 19th century, Oman had around 4,000 Hindus, but after attacks in 1895, their numbers dwindled. Currently, approximately 1,000 Hindus hold Omani citizenship, while the total Hindu population in the country is estimated at 259,780, mostly concentrated in Muscat. The majority of Oman’s population, 85–95%, are Muslims, predominantly Sunni.

Motishwar Temple: Heart of Devotion

The Motishwar Temple, located in Muscat’s historic Muttrah area near Al Alam Palace, hosts three temples within its complex: Shri Adi Motishwar Mahadev, Shri Motishwar Mahadev, and Shri Hanumanji Temple. The temple observes major festivals such as Vasant Panchami, Ram Navami, Hanuman Jayanti, Shravan, Ganesh Chaturthi, and sees over 20,000 devotees during Maha Shivaratri.

Built around 1909 by the Bhatia community from Thatta (Sindh, Pakistan) and later renovated in 1999, the temple features a well that retains water year-round despite Muscat’s desert climate. Three priests, three assistants, four administrative staff, and numerous volunteers maintain the temple’s operations.

Legacy of Indian Traders in Oman

The Thakkar family, originating from Mandvi in India, established significant trade networks in Muscat over 140 years ago. Khimji Ramdas expanded the family business, laying the foundation of one of Oman’s largest trading groups, which today operates with over $1 billion in annual turnover across consumer goods, lifestyle, infrastructure, projects, and logistics, serving more than 400 global brands.

Kankabhai Thakkar, a later descendant, founded the first English-language Indian school in Muscat in 1975, now part of a network of 19 schools educating 35,000 students. His philanthropy earned him the title of Sheikh, a distinction historically unprecedented for a member of the Hindu community in Oman.

India-Oman Trade Relations

Bilateral trade between India and Oman reached $10.6 billion in 2024–25, with India importing petroleum, natural gas, fertilizers, ammonia, and chemicals, while exporting processed minerals, Basmati rice, and select manufactured goods to Oman. The strong trade and cultural ties underscore Oman’s role as a longstanding partner of India in the Gulf.