Bahrain blends traditions and customs throughout its society
BY RUPALI DEAN
With modest expectations, I found myself in the enchanting nation of Bahrain, the sole island country in the Middle East. Its name, derived from the Arabic words meaning “two seas,” symbolises the harmony of the saltwater oceans and the hidden fresh water springs beneath them.
Upon my arrival, an intriguing blend of Hindi and Arabic filled the air at the airport, hinting at the cultural diversity that awaited me. As I ventured further into Bahrain, it became clear that I was not only entering the borders of a liberal Gulf state, but also stepping into the hearts, homes, and lives of the Bahraini people.
The four days I spent there seamlessly melded into a tapestry of leisurely yet enjoyable experiences. I swiftly embraced the captivating way of life and found solace in its uncomplicated pleasures. It was a sheer delight to immerse myself in such an exquisite ambience. Personally, what truly captivated me was the remarkable interweaving of traditions and customs within every facet of Bahraini society. Witnessing this harmonious fusion was nothing short of astonishing. It is undoubtedly an extraordinary time to exist and embrace the wonders that Bahrain has to offer.
BREAKFAST FIT FOR KINGS
Embarking on a culinary adventure, we make our way to Haji's café for a quintessential Bahraini breakfast. Nestled at the periphery of the vibrant Manama Souq, the café exudes an ambience that captivates my senses.
Though challenged by a short wait, I am fortunate enough to secure a table in the charming alleyway, ensconced amidst the local bustle. As we delve into the menu, we opt for traditional fare that epitomises the Bahraini palette.
Among the delectable options are baydh tomat, a delightful medley of scrambled eggs and succulent tomatoes, and a special omelette generously adorned with cheese. Accompanying these tantalising delights are an array of ever-flowing khuboos, vibrant salads, sumptuous beans, delectable dips, and luscious jams. And to complete this gastronomic journey, we savour the invigorating Kadak, resonating with the flavourful masala tea reminiscent of its Indian roots.
This breakfast experience, etched deep within my memory, will forever remain a cherished and unforgettable chapter in my culinary explorations.
THE GRAND MOSQUE
Adorned in an exquisite black abaya, with a veil gracefully concealing my head, I make my way toward the welcoming embrace of the iconic Grand Mosque of Bahrain. This particular visit bears a unique significance, unlike any other.
Gathered together in harmonious unity, we form a circle encircling a learned scholar of Islam, eager to delve into the profound teachings of this venerable religion that has nurtured and guided us throughout our sojourn in Bahrain, and even long before. Within these hallowed walls, we embark on a journey of enlightenment and self-discovery, engaging in insightful discussions and posing questions that unfurl the enigmatic layers of our faith.
The scholar’s wisdom becomes a guiding light, illuminating our path of understanding, as we absorb the profound lessons that lie at the core of Islam’s teachings. In the quiet sanctuary of the mosque, we find solace, knowledge, and the realisation that despite our diverse beliefs, there exists a unifying thread that binds all religions together — the timeless message of being truly human.
As I take my leave from this sanctuary of knowledge, I carry with me a newfound wealth of insights and a deeper understanding of not only my own faith, but also an appreciation for the universal values that transcend religion. The truth that resonates with unwavering clarity is that compassion, empathy, and kindness transcend the borders of creed, uniting all of humanity under the shared banner of our collective existence.
It is within this profound revelation that the essence of our common humanity flourishes, creating a tapestry of interconnectedness, woven with the threads of understanding, acceptance, and love.
FORMULA 1 RACETRACK
Emerging from the vast desert expanse, the Al Sakhir Tower stands tall like a luminous guiding light. In this off-season visit, we have the exceptional opportunity to witness the breath-taking beauty of a cutting-edge Formula 1 racetrack, immersing ourselves in its grandeur. A stroke of fortune rewards us with the privilege of embarking on a lap around the circuit, made possible by our pre-arranged online tour. However, the adventure does not stop there. Eager for further adrenaline-fueled exploits, I eagerly partake in an exhilarating four-wheel drive experience in a Land Rover. The sheer exhilaration and joy that accompanies this ride is simply unparalleled, etching an indelible smile on my face as I surrender to the thrills and excitement of the expedition.
In this remarkable excursion, I am not only privileged to witness the epitome of modern racetrack engineering but also engage in heart-pounding and unforgettable escapades.
CASTAWAY
Embarking on a serene journey, a leisurely boat ride spanning approximately 40 minutes from the Marina transports us to the pristine Jarada Island, where a true sanctuary of peace and tranquillity lies, offering us the ultimate Robinson Crusoe-esque experience. Here, the constraints of civilisation are left behind as we are granted the privilege of claim over a deserted island for a blissful afternoon.
Stepping onto this unspoiled paradise, we unload our carefully prepared picnic basket, embracing the freedom to revel in joyous moments of leisure. Laughter and delight resonate as we immerse ourselves in playful escapades, nourished by the harmonious ambience that surrounds us.
Yet, in the back of our minds, we remain mindful of the ebb and flow of time, knowing that the approaching evening brings forth an enchanting spectacle. As the sun begins its descent, casting its resplendent glow across the horizon, we bid farewell to the island just in the nick of time, heralding our departure from this ethereal refuge.
For, with the arrival of the high tide, Jarada Island gracefully submerges beneath the azure depths, returning to its watery domain until another day dawns anew. This ephemeral dance between land and sea, where the island emerges and retreats, stands as a poignant reminder of nature’s timeless rhythm.
As we depart from this enchanting realm, we carry with us the memories of a fleeting paradise and the profound realisation that sometimes it is within the temporary moments of respite that we discover the true essence of tranquillity and the beauty of untamed horizons.
