Mussar, the traditional Omani male headgear, is much more than just an accessory; it symbolizes national pride and reflects individual identity. This beautifully crafted square of finely woven wool, pashmina, or cotton is expertly wrapped into a turban, representing the rich cultural diversity and identity of the Sultanate.
Typically worn beneath the Mussar is the ‘Komma’, an intricately embroidered cap that forms part of the official Omani attire. While Mussar is largely reserved for formal occasions, the Komma is often worn at informal gatherings and family events. It's noteworthy that Omanis often don some of the most exquisite Mussars and Kommas found anywhere in the world.
For Sameer al Zadjali, an Omani citizen deeply devoted to Mussar, this headgear represents a journey of self-discovery. His passion has captured the hearts of both the younger generation and the elders within his community, thanks to his exceptional craftsmanship.
What started as a hobby blossomed into a fervent passion and a successful business for Sameer, an airline professional enchanted by the intricate designs of Mussar. Today, he is regarded in his community as a visionary entrepreneur and the first Omani to secure copyrights for his Mussar designs, proudly launching the brand ‘Paradise Muscat’ LLC.
From a young age, Sameer was fascinated by the intricate detailing of Mussar but never tied one himself, relying on his brother for help until a pivotal moment in his late teens. After his brother refused to assist him one day, Sameer resolved to master this art form himself, determined that the stunning designs should not go unseen when worn. Experimenting with plain cloth, he and his mother discovered how much of the design was obscured when tied.
In 2000, Sameer took the plunge to craft his first Mussar, collaborating with his mother and sister. He immersed himself in research about the fabric, its crafting process, and its historical significance, driven by his desire to elevate Oman's heritage through his craft.
“I was inspired by the global success of Amouage perfumes and wanted to put Oman on the map with my work. My aim was to create Mussars that truly stand out, drawing inspiration from the colours and moods of nature throughout the seasons,” Sameer explains.
After countless trials to create designs that showcased their beauty when worn, he ventured to Kashmir, the home of 'pashmina'. There, he learned first-hand from local artisans about the delicate process of Mussar production. His educational background in Pune allowed him to reconnect with weavers in India, strengthening his bond with the craft.
Every piece Sameer creates is unique—bespoke Mussars that cannot be duplicated elsewhere. “I’m in the process of developing a new collection specifically for the Royal Family, tailored for different occasions and preferences,” he shares.
Through his explorations, Sameer also discovered the fascinating legacy of Sultan Zain al Abidin, who established Kashmir's shawl industry over 700 years ago, sharing this artistry with the local community. The Mussars are primarily made from Pashmina, which comes from the ‘Hircus Capra’ goat, while the luxurious ‘Shatoosh’ shawl originates from a short-haired goat that thrives in frigid mountain climates.
Funding his project through personal savings, Sameer actively participates in promotional exhibitions for small enterprises and training workshops. His distinctive designs include the Saidi Mussar featuring a Daidi pattern, the Diwani Mussar, and various multi-design Mussars—his Kommas crafted by talented local women. Unlike the common Kashmiri Mussars, Sameer’s designs are exclusive to Oman, and some have found their way to the National Museum, showcasing his contribution to national heritage.
Looking Ahead
Al Zadjali envisions a Heritage Gallery in Muscat, dedicated to showcasing the art of crafting the Omani turban along with other traditional crafts. This gallery will serve as a mini-museum, allowing visitors to observe Omani artisans at work creating items such as daggers, handmade kummas, weaving, and pottery, providing insight into Oman’s cultural heritage.
Those who wear Sameer al Zadjali’s Mussars from ‘Paradise Muscat’ experience something truly special; these are not just garments but living pieces of art—expressions of the artisan’s dedication and a celebration of rich cultural narratives.
Each piece is a vivid tapestry of colours, telling stories from centuries gone by, where the shades of maroon, ochre, indigo, and violet weave a narrative of their own. These hues represent more than mere colours; they embody emotions, symbols, and philosophies, carefully crafted to evoke admiration while honouring the pride and heritage of Oman.
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