Bahrain is a melting pot of various cultures and communities and has accommodated lovingly people from various cultural backgrounds who have got enmeshed and integrated into the Bahraini culture.
‘Little India in Bahrain‘ a project initiated and supported by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities(BACA), to celebrate and document the contribution of the Indian community to the history and progress of Bahrain as well as to boost cultural tourism in the Kingdom, was inaugurated on 19 December 2015.
The ongoing “Little India” project located in Bab Bahrain Old Souq, is a bustling and colorful Indian enclave, and is an excellent venue to get a taste for the Indian culture in Bahrain. Indian music and dances, bright colors, spices and the joyful atmosphere will fill the place and make it a challenging adventure.
As part of the project, historical areas in Manama Souq have been beautified and made to be one of the top attractions in the country for Bahraini and expatriate residents as well as tourists from all over the world. The attractions at the site include the beautiful architecture of the historical houses and the traditional shops.
Little India also includes many leisure activities, such as renting bicycles to discover the alleys of old Manama Souq, equipped with baskets and bags for shopping as well. “Little India” could also be added to the general direction and guides’ map to help the visitors find the place easily.
Spanning across the various weeks of April, having begun in end March, “Little India” gives an account of the arrival of the first Indians into the Kingdom of Bahrain, the role they played in its growth, and their continuing influence here. The Indian community has contributed to Bahrain’s economy, its infrastructure, as well as its social and cultural history. Vintage photographs of the area breathes life into the vital aspects of this historic account. This project celebrates the great history and the enduring fruitful relationship between Bahrainis and Indians and show the continued commitment to strengthening these precious ties!