A String of Continuity

As modernity strangles and strengthens its grip on the world we live in, we all yearn to cling on to something that reminds us of the past. It lies in the fundamental irony of how, even as we push forward, there are things in the distant past, which sustain us and make us feel a little more in touch with the world. This picture, of a traditional dhow {Arab ship} is a reminder to me, of how our past never leaves us. It is an inanimate object that captures the essence of Dubai’s historical and cultural heritage. Being an Indian resident of an Arab nation, I am witness to a whopping change in this city. This picture is an atavism to an era where sea-fishing was the primary occupation.

The dhow, in all its magnificence, is symbolic of a revered and respected profession that typifies the culture and heritage of Dubai. With the Dubai fort {which is now a museum} as its backdrop, we get a glimpse of the Old Dubai, the heritage city. The mosque in the background also speaks of the religious heritage and perhaps, in a strange sense, of connection. It examines the idea of how the ancestors of this land found great joy in the completion of their vocation and in devotion to their faith

In our lives, everything around us is part of a string of continuity. Everything falls in place, in its position, as part of an ongoing cycle, towards a greater tomorrow, making sure of a richer yesterday. This picture, of an abra {a smaller version of the dhow} is an essential part of what has made Dubai, the bustling commercial center that it is.

In a city whose hallmark is its ever changing skyline and ever expanding boundaries, the abra has remained. It is a cheap means of transport from one half of the city, to the other half, both separated by a creek.

Used fundamentally by traders and low wage workers, the abra also symbolizes a struggle to succeed, one which every individual goes through, all so different in their pursuits, yet so similar.

With a proud national flag, fluttering on its roof, the dhow is an example of how captured its people are, by the nations pride and honor.

It signifies how people are just out there, destined to reach someplace, but still only getting there.

As mankind continues to strive for excellence, we overcome obstacles and go through experience, only to have them etched into our mind and soul for eternity. As a glorious people, the Arabs in Dubai believe in progress and aspire to transform their city, into a world city. While preserving their past, and embracing change, they aim for the perfect balance of culture, commerce and aesthetics.

As a reminder of their glory, we see many structures being built in tribute. This picture, of the ceiling at the hotel Grand Hyatt, is one such tribute. The base of the traditional dhow is being used as part of their interior scheme. It is a tribute to the heritage and culture of Dubai. By incorporating it in the architecture of their buildings, the people of Dubai have immortalized the dhow, its beauty and majesty.

Having seen such architecture for the first time in my life, I have attempted to discover three points of view and capture them through my lens and this photo is part three of my Parsons Challenge and the latest addition to the string of continuity of the traditional Arab sea vessel. From preservation of culture to its immortalization, while efficiently using it in between.