Muscat – National Museum launched the premiere of Al Khanjar, a documentary produced by RT Arabic in collaboration with Ministry of Information. The event, held on Monday under the patronage of H E Abdullah bin Nasser al Harrasi, Minister of Information, highlighted the significance of the Omani khanjar as a national emblem.

Jamal bin Hassan al Moosawi, Secretary-General of the National Museum, described the film as “a significant step in showcasing one of the most prominent Omani cultural symbols, which forms an integral part of Oman’s identity and rich heritage”. He noted that the Omani khanjar was added to Unesco’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2022.

The film explores the history and craftsmanship of the khanjar, tracing its evolution from the 17th century during the Imamate of the Al Yarubi Dynasty to the modern-day Saidi khanjar. It underscores the exceptional skill of Omani artisans in preserving this enduring symbol of prestige and dignity, which has remained untouched by the waves of globalisation.

Highlighting the partnership between the National Museum and the State Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, Russia, the documentary features the journey of a unique khanjar belonging to Sultan Hamoud bin Mohammed al Busaidi, the Sultan of Zanzibar (1896–1902). Loaned to the Hermitage Museum, this artefact now features in the Oman Gallery, reinforcing cultural ties between Oman and Russia.

“At the National Museum, we are committed to conveying Oman’s cultural message to the world and enhancing international partnerships in culture and museology,” said Moosawi. “This documentary exemplifies the importance of cultural collaboration in bringing Omani heritage to a wider audience and reinforcing Oman’s status as a global cultural destination.”

Anisa Murad, Director of the Programmes Department at RT Arabic and the film’s producer, said, “Working on this project was more than documenting the history of the khanjar. It was an opportunity to discover Oman’s traditions and its resilience in preserving its cultural identity amidst globalisation. This spirit mirrors Russia’s own efforts to maintain its cultural imprint in a rapidly changing world.”

H E Harrasi said that the production of the film reflects the strength of Omani-Russian relations in the fields of culture and media. 

He added that the film production also underlines the two countries’ keenness on consolidating global cultural diversity and highlighting Omani civilisation, in Russia and the world.

H E Harrasi stressed that the Ministry of Information supports all media initiatives that spotlight Oman and its cultural potential at the international level. He pointed out that such international media initiatives also contribute to enhancing economic aspects like tourism and investment.

The 28-minute film takes viewers on a visual journey across Oman’s diverse landscapes showcasing regional variations of the khanjar. It also features interviews with khanjar makers, restorers, and National Museum staff, offering insights into the craftsmanship behind this cultural artefact.

Filmed at prominent locations such as the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Royal Opera House Muscat, Oman Across Ages Museum, and the historic cities of Nizwa and Sur, the documentary extends to St. Petersburg, blending Omani and Russian narratives.

Directed by Karim Najib with a soundtrack by Ahmed and Mohamed Saleh, Al Khanjar is a tribute to Omani heritage and a testament to the nation’s enduring cultural pride.