Muscat – Known for his extensive contributions to local media through letters to the editor, Nair’s departure marks the end of an era for a man who has become a familiar voice in the community.

In the following interview with The Arabian Stories, Ramachandran Nair reflects on a journey rich in experiences and milestones; he shares insights into his life in Oman, from his initial arrival in Salalah to his years in Buraimi and Muscat.

Letters to the Editor

Talking about his inspiration to write letters to the editor, he points out that he used to wake at 4.30 am to wait for Dubai newspapers to land at his doorsteps. Reflecting on those days, he states: “When I was in Buraimi for a few years, access to the UAE newspapers was easy, and my passion for writing letters and short opinion articles changed to a real unexpected opportunity.”

However, he notes that his initial tryst with letter-writing for dailies began while he was in Mumbai, with tabloids like Mid-Day and The Afternoon, thanks to his passion for news and editorials and his curiosity to respond to them. He recalls being surprised when he first received a handwritten letter from a tabloid, asking for more information about an issue he’d shared. 

“Though I was a bit scared, I collected more details and again resent them to the editor.  That letter was published with a picture of the scene where filthy surroundings were noticed,” he adds.

Writing, whether in response to editorials as letters or as opinion pieces to address social issues, has been one of the high points of Nair’s long tenure in Oman. When asked about his memorable moments in Oman, he recounts the over 9,000 ‘letters (to the editor)’, musings, and opinion pieces published in print media. “Almost all the Omani English newspapers and magazines had my name printed and they are part of my collection of write ups.  Such an extensive collection of letters and articles in original paper cuttings fly with me all the way to my hometown in Kerala, and the same will be displayed at a dedicated place in my home.  This will, for sure, reflect Oman as a country offering freedom of speech,” he states.  

Key Milestones and Experiences

Nair first arrived in Oman in 1990, settling in Salalah before moving to Buraimi. His proximity to the UAE allowed him to explore Dubai and Al Ain, expanding his horizons.

“Since the initial years offered quite extensive opportunities to travel across the country, it helped me see the Omani people of different wilayats, understanding their food habits, and other traditional and cultural values…” he notes, adding that his shift to GAC in Muscat provided him an all new perspective of the country.

Explaining about those days, he says, “Since I started working with GAC at their Muscat office, capital city has been closer to the reach and its variety of shopping experience from the previous places I visited made me think of life and its challenges.”  

Working at GAC provided Nair with valuable insights into the shipping and logistics industry and exposed him to the professionalism of people from various nationalities.

Significant Changes in Oman

Nair notes that he has witnessed remarkable changes in Oman during the past nearly three-and-a-half decades, particularly in the fields of infrastructure, education, energy, and retail – the latter adding to the shopping experience with the entry of several international brands under hypermarkets and commercial malls. Oman’s commitment to peace and its efforts to promote international cooperation have also left a lasting impression on Nair.

According to him, the government’s focused endeavours to ensure that every citizen has access to essential goods and services is reflective of the nation’s legacy of connected growth.

Commenting on the changes he has observed during the past three decades and more, he compares them to a kaleidoscope of past and present photo albums. A look through these images demonstrates how Oman has transformed in several ways to align with modern living while respecting the value of Oman’s culture and diversity, he maintains.

Plans for the Future

As Nair prepares to leave Oman, he remains passionate about reading, writing, and engaging in online discussions. He plans to continue contributing to society through his writing and exploring opportunities in the media and online sectors.

“Even though social media is dominating today in every corner, we can still see how other readers feel, share our own thoughts, and see how individual perspectives make interesting debates… There are plenty of opportunities in the media and online segments, so I will focus on how new-age technology can best be utilized to influence society on matters of care and affection,” he muses.  

A Message to Oman

Expressing gratitude for the positive influence Oman has had on his life and perspective, Nair reflects on the country’s cultural diversity, historical richness, and the peaceful nature of its people. Oman’s commitment to freedom of speech and expression has also been a source of inspiration for him.

Underscoring Oman’s love peace and harmony, he states: “I haven’t seen any Omani people arguing or quarreling in public, and at the workplace.  They have faith in their childhood beliefs and practice them at work and home. This, indeed, is very affectionate and clearly shows their cultural respect.”

He wishes Oman continued success and prosperity, emphasizing the importance of preserving its cultural heritage and fostering a peaceful and harmonious society.