The Hidden Legacy of the British Raj in the Gulf States

In the winter of 1956, a young journalist named David Holden touched down in Bahrain, at the time still entrenched in British colonial rule. His initial journey was more than just a professional assignment; it was a deep dive into a world that intertwined the remnants of British India with the unique cultures of the Gulf states—Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Oman. This intersection of histories, often overlooked, reveals a fascinating narrative of colonialism and identity that continues to shape the region today.

A Phantasmal Sway

Holden’s reporting from the Gulf painted a vivid picture of a colonial past. The influence of British India lingered in the air, almost taking on a life of its own. He wrote, “The Raj maintains here a slightly phantasmal sway," depicting a world where the echoes of British governance were still felt through the customs and lifestyles that persisted. This perception of colonial authority was both nostalgic and surreal, filled with anomalies such as servants referred to as "bearers" and the introduction of Anglo-Indian traditions, such as the mandatory Sunday curry feast.

Historical Context: The British Indian Empire

The early 20th century was a pivotal time for the Gulf states, which were largely integrated into the British Indian Empire. This period marked a fascinating juxtaposition—the simultaneous coexistence of Indigenous cultures alongside colonial rule. At its height, the British political influence extended from Aden to Kuwait, creating a crescent of territories governed from Delhi and overseen by the Indian Political Service. Interestingly, the British legal framework considered these protectorates as part of India, even as their unique identities began to emerge.

The Indian Influence in Arabian Culture

During Holden’s explorations, he found that the entire socio-political fabric was interwoven with Indian influences. The Sultan of Oman, for instance, was more fluent in Urdu than Arabic, showcasing a shared cultural history. Similarly, soldiers from neighboring territories donned uniforms rooted in historical British Indian military traditions. The perception of a “stopped clock”—a feeling that time in this region was forever set in the era of Queen Victoria—was not just a metaphor but a lived reality for many.

The Shifting Political Landscape

However, the tides of change were beginning to surface. As the 1920s rolled in, Indian nationalism shifted sentiments; activists envisioned a unified cultural space, unbounded by colonial boundaries. In 1937, the British Empire took steps to sever Aden from the Indian administration, a move underscored by King George VI’s declaration. The Gulf region, though still facing colonial governance, began to anticipate a future free from British oversight.

The Final Separation

On April 1, 1947, a crucial bureaucratic decision effectively marked the Gulf states as separate entities, distinct from the political strife of India and Pakistan. British officials debated whether to hand responsibility for the Gulf to either country post-independence. Ultimately, they opted to maintain their grip, keeping the Arabian territories under British control for another 24 years until the withdrawal in 1971.

The Indian Raj’s Echoes Today

The legacy of British rule in the Gulf manifests deeply in contemporary society. The relationship has been overshadowed by narratives crafted by newly independent states. Modern Gulf states often highlight their sovereignty, minimizing the impact of their historical ties to British India. Yet, the threads of shared history remain. Many families carry memories—both collective and individual—of a time when India dictated political tides in the Gulf.

Modern Relevance: Class and Identity

A telling moment from 2009 highlights the class reversal that occurred post-colonization. In a reflection by Gulf scholar Paul Rich, an elderly Qatari recounted how the Indians, once a privileged caste, are now seen in positions of servitude. This historical reversal serves as a poignant reminder of how history is not merely a record of past events but a living context that shapes present identities.

The Glittering Future

Today, cities like Dubai, which once served as mere outposts of the British Empire, have transformed into thriving metropolises that symbolize modern luxury and innovation. However, the whispers of a possible Indian or Pakistani inheritance of the Gulf’s resources linger in the background, reminding us that history can pivot on seemingly minor administrative decisions.

As we explore this intricate legacy, it’s essential to recognize that the narratives forged during colonial times, even when buried, have residual impacts on contemporary relations in the Gulf and beyond. The British Raj may have faded, but its echoes resonate through the corridors of history, shaping the cultural and political landscapes of today.