Sharjah Ruler launches historical novel Al Julanda at book fair

 

His Highness Shaikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, launched his latest book, Al Julanda Khalid bin Sultan Al Qasimi, a historical novel based on documentary sources, at the Sharjah International Book Fair on Saturday evening.

The launch was attended by His Highness Shaikh Dr Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, and Her Highness Shaikha Bodour bint Sultan al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority.

The publication brings the Sharjah Ruler’s works to 219, spanning history, scholarly research, literature, fiction and theatre.

Speaking at the launch, the Sharjah Ruler discussed the role of historical fiction in conveying facts and history through literary storytelling. He described it as a form of cultural expression that complements research, poetry, short stories and other intellectual pursuits.

He said his novels were deliberately concise, taking account of readers’ daily commitments while encouraging them to read and benefit from their content.

The Sharjah Ruler revealed that Al Julanda took five days to write and half a day to print. He explained that major scholarly works were followed by shorter publications, including novels, intended to introduce readers to novel-writing, theatre and cultural work.

Reflecting on 54 years of work, he described his contributions as modest in relation to what was owed to the nation.

He stressed the importance of consulting original documents when writing history, rather than relying solely on published accounts. Original sources, he said, could correct historical narratives. He encouraged university researchers to study manuscripts and historical documents, noting that he held hundreds of thousands of documents to support research.

Published by Al Qasimi Publications, the novel comprises five chapters tracing 38 years in the life of Shaikh Khalid bin Sultan bin Saqr al Qasimi, known as Al Julanda.

Combining historical documentation with literary storytelling, it explores the social, political and maritime life of the Arabian Gulf during the 19th century through a life marked by upheaval, adventure and unexpected turns.

The story begins in Sharjah’s ruling household. Removed from power, the young Shaikh Khalid follows his father’s instructions to leave the city, hoping to reunite with a childhood love. His journey instead leads him through a succession of unforeseen events.

His travels take him between Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Khasab, Muscat and Lengeh, and into the sea in search of pearls. Through migration, imprisonment and governance, the narrative portrays a character shaped by wisdom, courage and emotion.

The novel also explains the Omani connection behind his nickname. Mahra bint Ibrahim al Marzouqi, his father’s wife, who raised him during childhood, gave him the nickname after Al Julanda al Azdi, a pre-Islamic king of Oman, in recognition of her Omani ancestry. The nickname eventually became more widely used than his given name.

One episode recounts how Shaikh Khalid rescued a stranger from drowning off Muscat. Seeing the man struggling in rough seas, he entered the water and brought him ashore, without knowing his identity or origins.

Another follows his enduring love for Amina bint Shaikh Abdullah bin Mohsen al Zain, whom he had known since childhood. After her husband, Shaikh Saeed bin Qadhib al Qasimi, Ruler of Lengeh, died, Shaikh Khalid sought to marry her. However, she died before their marriage could take place.

The Sharjah Ruler signed the first copies of the novel and presented them to members of the ruling family.The launch was attended by senior officials, writers, intellectuals and others interested in cultural affairs.