In a recent lecture hosted by the Sri Lankan Embassy in Bahrain at the Bahrain National Museum on October 19, 2023, Senior Professor Raj Somadeva delved into the historical relations between the Middle East and Sri Lanka. The narrative, rich in detail and personal reflection, painted a vivid picture of centuries-long connections fostered by maritime trade, political alliances, and cultural exchange.
Professor Somaveda captured the essence of this shared history, bound by the vast Arabian Sea for over 5,000 years, “The two regions share a common sea and lived throughout history in a single continental mass. More or less during the past 5000 years, we have shared our cultures in different scales and distinct intensities.”
Early evidence of these connections comes from the accounts of Arab explorers like Sulaiman al Tajir, who described Sri Lanka’s “grand year of the island of Sielen, or Serendip, as they call it.” These records, Professor Somaveda emphasised, “provide us with a reliable source of information that helps to reconstruct the historical relationship held between Sri Lanka and the Middle Eastern world for centuries.”
Professor Somadeva also shed light on archaeological evidence, such as ancient coins, which stand as a testament to the enduring trade and cultural ties between Sri Lanka and the Middle East.
Political and religious interactions also played a significant role. Professor Somaveda highlighted Albiruni’s description of a mission sent by a Sri Lankan king to the Sasanian emperor, demonstrating a long-standing tradition of diplomacy between the regions. The arrival of Islam in the 7th century, further sparked curiosity within Sri Lanka, as Professor Somaveda recounted, “a fascinating story related to this has been reported by Ibn Yar…When the people of Serendip and the surrounding area came to know of the appearance of the Prophet of Islam and his message, they delegated an intelligent person from among themselves and sent him to Arabia to meet him to get information about him and give a first-hand report to his people.”
The thriving trade networks that traversed the Indian Ocean were also central to this relationship. Professor Somaveda quoted a famous Arabic literary composition to paint a vivid picture: “Merchandises were used for trade. There are grades, rules, and regulations governing these items. Close relations between traders on trust and success of the business, the rules on the barter system, assessments of the value of items, commercial centres and towns, and great kingdoms that existed at the time are vividly narrated in that work.” Archaeological evidence like Arabic inscriptions and ceramics further substantiate this robust trade network.
Professor Somaveda also highlighted the significant role played by Muslim communities in Sri Lanka during the 13th and 14th centuries, their influence in courtly circles, expertise in maritime trade, and contribution to safeguarding the island’s coastline. He quoted Al Makrizi’s account of King Bonikabahu’s diplomatic mission to the Mamluk court, where the Sri Lankan king declared, “Ceylon is Egypt and Egypt is Ceylon. So this is the ideology. It’s completely political.” This mission exemplifies the deep political and economic interconnectedness between the regions during this period.
Looking towards the future, Professor Somaveda acknowledged the shared challenges faced by both regions but also emphasised Sri Lanka’s rich natural heritage and cultural diversity as valuable assets for potential collaboration and tourism. He concluded by echoing the sentiment expressed by the King of Sri Lanka centuries ago, “Sri Lanka is a nation that maintains a prolonged tradition in the history of South Asia. We were one of the closest friends of the Middle Eastern nations throughout the ages. During that period, we shared trade ideas and traditions between us. The avenues to continue such are still open. Please encourage the citizens of your countries to visit Sri Lanka and experience her culture and natural environment. We are waiting to welcome warmly our historical friends from the Middle Eastern Region with pleasing sentiments.”
Professor Somaveda skillfully combined historical stories with present-day aspirations. The lecture served as a powerful reminder of the deep historical ties between Sri Lanka and the Middle East, urging a revival of the traditions of trade, cultural exchange, and mutual understanding that have characterised this relationship for centuries. The shared future, he suggests, lies in recognising and building upon this rich historical tapestry.