The Indian community in Qatar gathered on July 15 to pay tribute to the late His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, recognizing his pivotal role in Qatar’s transformation into a global economic and diplomatic power. The condolence meeting, organized by the Embassy of India alongside key Indian organizations including the Indian Cultural Centre (ICC), Indian Community Benevolent Forum (ICBF), Indian Sports Centre (ISC), and Indian Business and Professionals Council (IBPC), was held at ICC Ashoka Hall in Doha.
The event drew a broad representation of the Indian diaspora, including leadership from the organizing bodies, embassy officials, and community members. Abraham K Joseph, general secretary of the ICC, opened the program by recalling the Father Amir’s foresight in steering Qatar’s growth and modernization, emphasizing the opportunities and security afforded to expatriates, particularly the Indian community. The gathering observed a minute of silence before a video presentation highlighting the Father Amir’s achievements and enduring impact.
Leaders from the Indian diaspora spoke on his legacy. AP Manikantan, president of the ICC, characterized the Father Amir as a transformative leader whose policies fostered progress, stability, and inclusiveness, benefiting generations of Indians living in Qatar. Shanavas Bava, president of the ICBF, noted that the conducive environment created under his leadership enabled numerous Indian families to thrive and contribute to Qatar’s development. EP Abdulrahman, president of the ISC, highlighted the Father Amir’s focus on infrastructure and sports, which helped position Qatar as a global sports hub, providing expanded opportunities for the expatriate community. Thaha Muhammad, president of the IBPC, acknowledged the economic reforms that established Qatar as a premier destination for investment and commerce, enabling Indian professionals and businesses to prosper in a stable environment.
Indian Ambassador to Qatar HE Vipul paid homage to the Father Amir’s visionary leadership and his significant role in expanding bilateral relations between India and Qatar. He recalled the late leader’s efforts in strengthening ties across political, economic, energy, and cultural domains. Ambassador Vipul referenced Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s tribute describing Sheikh Hamad as “a visionary leader” and “a true friend of India.” He noted that India’s observance of a national day of mourning reflected the high regard in which the Father Amir was held.
The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks from Deepak Shetty, general secretary of the ICBF, who expressed gratitude to all participants for honoring the Father Amir’s memory. Prayers were offered for the departed soul’s peace, and attendees reaffirmed their solidarity with Qatar’s leadership and people. The consensus among participants was that the Father Amir’s legacy of visionary leadership and compassion would continue to inspire the Indian community and deepen the longstanding friendship between India and Qatar.