Whenever His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Muhammad Al Qasimi graces the annals of history, be it in the proximity of our time or in the distant past, an enchanting discourse ensues. It is a discourse of fresh perspectives and profound insights, carefully constructed through the art of analysis and interpretation. His Highness diligently observes and records the verifiable facts, drawing from a vast array of authenticated references. Such is his command over storytelling that he seamlessly employs the tools of the novel, weaving a narrative that is both captivating and masterful. The pages of this literary marvel are adorned with an elegant prose that effortlessly enthrals the reader. With a judicious approach that values simplicity, His Highness imparts knowledge to the reader, who is thereby compelled to delve deeper into the realms of the historical narrative. This captivating work not only imparts lessons but also presents visionary ideas, inviting readers to explore and contemplate the rich tapestry of historical events.
“Khorfakkan's Resistance to the Portuguese Invasion: September 1507 AD - February 1534 AD" stands as a captivating creation, a fictional masterpiece penned by the esteemed Ruler of Sharjah. Published by the esteemed "Al Qasimi Publications" in 2023, this work shines among the constellation of historical novels within His Highness's comprehensive narrative project.
These narrative gems draw inspiration from the annals of history, meticulously crafted to encompass a myriad of knowledge domains. Through the artistry of fiction, His Highness offers his unique vision of reality and history, seeking to extract wisdom and guidance for the present era. These narratives, infused with the noble virtues of valour, gallantry, and sagacity, serve as a vessel to cleanse historical truths from the tarnish of falsehood, to vanquish slander, and to rectify misconceptions surrounding pivotal historical events.
In these captivating tales, we witness His Highness's diligent pursuit of history, subjecting it to a critical examination and demanding accountability. In doing so, he rekindles a reverence for truth, laying the foundation for the creation of a renewed Arab and Islamic reality, resonating with the spirit of our times.
Within the realm of His Highness, the Ruler of Sharjah's fictional endeavours, lies an exquisite tapestry of exploration and research. Delving deep into the annals of history, he unearths a trove of documents, references, and rare manuscripts, previously hidden and elusive. In these profound works, the reader is treated to a banquet of knowledge, where each narrative unfolds as a symphony of information, carefully crafted to engage and challenge the intellect.
Respecting the reader's intellectual prowess, these novels provoke thought, beckoning the mind to contemplate and analyse the historical events that His Highness skilfully resurrects from the shadows of oblivion. As the reader embarks on a journey through these narrative marvels, a genuine sense of pleasure accompanies the exploration of the unknown facets of reality and history.
This particular novel, the ninth edition in the illustrious category of novels and narratives, marks the eighty-first addition to the distinguished collection of works by His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, spanning various fields of knowledge. Its slender frame of seventy-five pages encapsulates a profound testament to the indomitable spirit of the people of Khorfakkan. Within its pages, the epic heroism of their valiant stand against the Portuguese fleet, led by the renowned Afonso de Albuquerque, is meticulously recounted. Their unwavering commitment to their cherished homeland is etched in the very essence of this captivating narrative.
High Values
In the eloquent preface to the novel, His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah imparts profound wisdom: "Khorfakkan's Resistance to the Portuguese Invasion" stands as an authentically documented historical tale, recounting the unwavering resilience of the people of Khorfakkan against the ruthless Portuguese incursion of 1507. Amidst the atrocities committed by the invaders, who unleashed devastation upon innocent lives, defiled the elderly, razed the city to the ground, and desecrated the fort, fate ordained a return to the scene years later. Yet, this time, the valiant people of Khorfakkan lay in wait, exacting vengeance upon the Portuguese forces, slaying many while capturing others. Astonishingly, the captives were spared the same mutilation inflicted upon their predecessors, for the people of Khorfakkan held steadfast to the principles of honor and respect, even in the face of their oppressors.
Imbued with the essence of this captivating narrative, the novel's ambience reveals the Portuguese occupiers' abhorrent cruelty, a stark portrayal of their flagrant disregard for any semblance of values or morals. Their insidious legacy was one of ruin, marked by the incineration of the city and the wanton destruction of an esteemed archaeological and historical gem—the very fortress that stood as a testament to Khorfakkan's heritage. Such destruction, a recurring pattern exhibited by Western invaders in their quest for dominance, served as a deliberate assault on identity and heritage.
Yet, it is at this juncture that His Highness directs his focus, shedding light upon the indomitable spirit of resistance displayed by the people of Khorfakkan. In doing so, he underscores the lofty virtues of courage, valour, and the unyielding determination that pulsated within their hearts. Of utmost significance is His Highness's emphasis on the people's remarkable conduct towards the captured invaders—a display of unwavering adherence to inherited religious values and morality. Their treatment of the captives was guided by principles of noble virtue, resolutely adhering to a code that transcended mere vengeance, and upholding the very essence of human dignity.
The novel unfurls its captivating narrative with an evocative scene set amidst the azure expanse, on the fateful morning of September 21st, 1507. Across the shimmering waters, a formidable Portuguese fleet emerges, its sails billowing with an air of dominance. This armada, comprising six resolute warships—four grand vessels and two nimble crafts—finds its helm commanded by the illustrious Afonso de Albuquerque, accompanied by a retinue of distinguished leaders and seasoned elders. Nestled within these vessels, a military force of 460 valiant soldiers, their ranks intertwined with a host of nobles and chivalrous knights.
As the fleet nears the craggy peaks of the eastern Khorfakkan mountains, its presence is unwittingly witnessed by a group of five intrepid Arab sailors. Aboard their modest vessel named "Sanbouq," their eyes catch a fleeting glimpse of the approaching force. Swiftly, the small ship sets sail towards Khorfakkan, propelled by a resolute determination. A cat-and-mouse chase ensues, the Portuguese desperately attempted to vanquish the vessel and seize its elusive quarry. Yet, like a wisp of smoke, the ship deftly manoeuvres, nimbly evading its pursuers. At the precipice of the eastern mountain range, the vessel deftly veers, melding into the rugged terrain, escaping the prying eyes of the Portuguese armada.
This enthralling narrative inception unveils a vivid tapestry of visuals, leaving an indelible impression upon the reader's imagination. Through this artful narration, the author captivates the reader, evoking a sense of urgency imbued with an atmosphere of heightened anticipation, compelling the reader to eagerly immerse themselves in the unfolding tale. It serves as a testament to the author's creative prowess and innovative storytelling, setting the stage for the forthcoming events with a palpable sense of anticipation.
As the sailors aboard the resolute vessel "Sanbouq" embark on their crucial mission to relay the impending arrival of the invaders, their journey toward Khorfakkan unfolds like a spellbinding tale. The narration astutely captures the essence of this peculiar scene, where the vessel draws near the shore. In a symphony of voices, the air reverberates with the exultant cries of the people: "Sanbuq, Sanbuq, Sanbuq." Simultaneously, the sailors aboard the small vessel, recognizing the gravity of their mission, unite their voices in urgent warning, crying out to the people on the beach: "Pertucal, Pertucal, Pertucal." This fervent call serves as a clarion call, a desperate plea to alert the unsuspecting crowd of the impending Portuguese ships, urging them to brace for the imminent danger.
Landmarks of the City
In a remarkable display of literary prowess, His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah meticulously renders a breath-taking portrait of Khorfakkan during that era. With eloquence, he unveils a wondrous tableau, remarking, "Behold the city of Khorfakkan, nestled upon a vast expanse, embraced by the majesty of towering mountains. The land stretches forth, merging harmoniously with the azure sea, where mountain-dwellers descend, bearing their steeds to engage in the bustling trade of horses with seafaring merchants, destined for the shores of distant India." Such vivid imagery thrusts the reader into the heart of these historical events, immersing them in the political, cultural, civilizational, and economic tapestry of that bygone era.
The book's narrative journey unfolds with a meticulous depiction of life in those times, shedding light upon the city's governance, which rested in the hands of a representative appointed by the King of Hormuz, commanding a dedicated cohort of soldiers. It astutely observes the pulsating reality of the people, congregating en masse near the shore, as the Portuguese warships gradually loom closer. Amidst this tumultuous scene, some souls clutch the banner of surrender, their gestures betraying a surrender to the imminent encroachment. Meanwhile, merchants and dignitaries, foreseeing the impending turmoil, navigate their vessels away from the city's embrace. All the while, the Portuguese commander watches this unfolding spectacle, a witness to the ebb and flow of human fate.
As the Portuguese vessels make landfall upon the pristine shores, the valiant people of Khorfakkan, mounted upon their noble steeds, gallantly strive to impede the invaders' disembarkation. Yet, the Portuguese boats unleash their fiery shells, an onslaught that begets tragic martyrdom, while the Portuguese soldiers forced their way to the shores.
Within the pages of this illuminating work lies a crucial glimpse into the annals of history, illuminating the spirit of unity and solidarity that bound the people of this illustrious region. The book reveals that the denizens of Khorfakkan were not merely warriors; they were also guardians of knowledge and custodians of culture. Evident in the poignant dialogues that transpire between the people and the Portuguese leader, Afonso, is a profound understanding of Western history, a testament to their erudition and cultural heritage.
Championship of the people of Khorfakkan
The novel unfolds as a grand tapestry, capturing the heroic saga of the people of Khorfakkan, standing valiantly against the relentless advance of the Portuguese soldiers who sought to seize their beloved city. In the face of this invasion, the people of Khorfakkan exhibited unparalleled bravery, unleashing a barrage of arrows upon their aggressors, wielding their war tools with unwavering determination. Driven by an unwavering sense of duty and a steadfast commitment to protect their land and possessions, they defied oppression and death, their indomitable resistance standing firm.
Throughout the narrative, the true nature of the Portuguese unfolds, their actions revealing a distinct absence of values and morals, particularly evident in their treatment of the elderly. Afonso de Albuquerque, their commander, cruelly ordered the disfigurement of their venerable faces, severing their ears and maiming their noses. Yet, even in the face of such extreme oppression, the courage of the people of Khorfakkan remained unyielding, unbroken by the weight of their suffering.
Years later, in 1534, as the Portuguese invaders returned, the unwavering spirit of the people of Khorfakkan once again emerged triumphant. Victory became their steadfast ally in their relentless struggle against occupation, as they emerged victorious, defeating the Portuguese forces, and capturing a considerable number of them. Faced with the indomitable will of the people, the invaders were left with no choice but to engage in negotiations with the Qawasim’s leader, Sheikh Saqr Al Qasimi, a compelling scene where the strength of determination triumphed over brutal force.
These stirring accounts, as chronicled in Al-Khaleej Newspaper, serve as a testament to the unwavering spirit and indomitable courage of the people of Khorfakkan, echoing through the annals of history as a resounding tale of resistance and triumph.
Source: Al-Khaleej Newspaper