Sharjah Ruler Launches Historical Novel Chronicling 19th-Century Al Qasimi Life
Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi releases his 219th work at Sharjah Book Fair.
1Historical Novel Launch
Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, officially launched his latest historical novel, 'Al-Julandi Khalid bin Sultan Al Qasimi,' at the Sharjah International Book Fair. The event, attended by high-ranking officials and cultural figures, highlights the ruler's ongoing commitment to documenting regional history through both academic research and creative literature.
2Narrative and Scope
Spanning thirty-eight years, the novel follows the life of Sheikh Khalid bin Sultan Al Qasimi, known as Al-Julandi. The narrative traverses Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Khasab, Muscat, and Lengeh. It captures the complex social, political, and maritime dynamics of the Arabian Gulf during the nineteenth century, blending documented historical reality with compelling storytelling.
3Personal and Political Journey
The story begins with Khalid's removal from power in Sharjah. Following his father's instructions, he embarks on a journey that leads to exile, imprisonment, and involvement in pearl diving. The plot also explores his enduring, tragic love for Amina bint Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohsen Al Zain, which remains unfulfilled despite his persistent efforts.
4Origins of the Name
The protagonist was named Khalid after the Islamic commander Khalid bin Al Waleed. However, he became widely known as Al-Julandi, a name bestowed upon him in childhood by his stepmother, Mahra bint Ibrahim Al Marzouqi. The title honors an ancient Omani king, reflecting her ancestral heritage and eventually overshadowing his original birth name.
5Writing and Production Speed
The Sharjah Ruler revealed that he completed the manuscript in just five days, with printing taking an additional half-day. Despite this rapid production, the work is part of a broader intellectual legacy. He explained that these shorter novels serve as accessible entry points for readers, complementing his extensive, long-term scholarly research projects.
6Literary Philosophy
With this release, the Ruler’s total body of work reaches 219 publications. He emphasizes that historical fiction is a vital cultural tool for conveying facts to a busy public. By keeping his novels concise, he aims to accommodate the daily responsibilities of readers while fostering a deeper interest in regional history and literature.
7Emphasis on Documentation
The author stresses that historical accounts must rely on authentic manuscripts and original documents rather than secondary narratives. He maintains a vast archive of hundreds of thousands of records, which he actively encourages university students and researchers to utilize. He believes original documentation is essential for correcting and preserving the accuracy of history.
8Legacy and Future Impact
Reflecting on fifty-four years of intellectual contributions, the Ruler views his work as a modest effort toward serving his nation. By documenting the lives of figures like Al-Julandi, he seeks to highlight the human side of history. His ongoing projects continue to bridge the gap between rigorous academic investigation and public cultural engagement.