Muscat – As Oman celebrates its 54th National Day, a novel initiative has brought people together to express their love and pride for the sultanate. A giant board placed outside Lulu Hypermarket in Bausher is covered with sticky notes on which citizens and expatriates have written heartfelt messages to express their patriotism and loyalty. The […]
Muscat – As Oman celebrates its 54th National Day, a novel initiative has brought people together to express their love and pride for the sultanate. A giant board placed outside Lulu Hypermarket in Bausher is covered with sticky notes on which citizens and expatriates have written heartfelt messages to express their patriotism and loyalty.
The messages – ‘You are my home and praises for my home always’, ‘Lovely people, lovely place and lovely food’, ‘Happy National Day to our beloved Oman; may you remain beautiful always’ and the like – all reflect the deep emotional connection people feel for the sultanate. Hundreds of notes from Oman’s diverse population have been stuck to the board carrying words of gratitude and pledging allegiance in Arabic and English.
Ten-year-old Ahmed al Balushi penned his love for the country with the words: ‘Oman is my heart, and I love my country forever.’ Excited to take part, he said, “This is a new idea, and I am happy to leave a message.”
Aisha al Nabhani, a teacher who visited the mall with students on Sunday, said, “This is a beautiful way for everyone to express national pride.” Her message was simple: ‘Long live Oman and His Majesty.’
Ramesh Kumar, who has called Oman home for over two decades, shared his thoughts. “This country is my second home. My message says, ‘Oman, may you prosper forever.’
His son Arjun left a simple note of gratitude. ‘Thank you, Oman, for being so welcoming.’
The initiative, a collaboration between Lulu Hypermarkets and Muscat Creative and Advertising Agency, began on November 1 and continued till November 18 at five Lulu Hypermarket locations – Bausher, Amerat, Suhar, Nizwa and Salalah. Organisers expected about 70,000 notes, each echoing the spirit of National Day.
“The initiative is a celebration of Oman’s 54th National Day and we are thrilled by the overwhelming response from our community,” said Shabeer KA, Regional Director of Lulu Hypermarkets Oman. “Collecting nearly 70,000 messages of goodwill and patriotism is a testament to the unity and pride shared by both locals and expatriates. We are proud to have partnered with Muscat Creative and Advertising Agency to bring this unique campaign to life.”
Participants of diverse nationalities, including India, Pakistan, the UK, Sri Lanka, Nepal, the Philippines and Bangladesh, joined Omanis in penning their messages.
Jessica Walker, who has lived in Oman for 16 years, said, “Oman’s beauty and kindness inspire us all. My message says, ‘Happy National Day to a nation of peace and love.’”
Children added a creative touch, drawing images with their notes, while their parents shared memories and hopes for the country. Besides allegiance to His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, it reflected the strong sense of community and belonging felt by everyone living in the sultanate.
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