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Balkrishna Shetty, the Ambassador of India to the Kingdom of Bahrain encouraged the publication of the book, Footprints in Time: The Story of Indians in Bahrain, from its inception.
Not only did he extend his full support for this ambitious project but also encouraged senior members of the Indian community to do so.
Speaking of the significance of the book in rekindling and reacquainting the younger generation of Indians and Bahrainis to this historic relationship, he said: "I wanted that we should write this book as I feel that the Indo-Bahraini relationship is very special. Among the older generations there is a tremendous warmth and goodwill for India and conversely Indians have tremendous goodwill for Bahrain.
"The role of Indians before Bahraini independence was very strong. They were known for their trust and hard work. If you ask any old Bahraini gentlemen he will always mention that Indians were always honest and upright. The amazing part was that they were so honest and upright that there was no need to even keep records. Very importantly they were also very ethical.
"Some of them set their companies later in the 1930s and 40s but they came here from 1800 onwards. However, the younger generation is not aware of these historical links.
"As governments and as diplomats our job is to build on this strong foundation. I believe diplomacy is not only between governments ... it is about people.
"With these ties of friendship and trust whatever be the situation you can always look out to each other for help."
Both countries are today one among the fastest growing economies of the world.
Three months ago the count of Indians working or living in the kingdom stood at 290,000, also the largest among the resident expatriate population.
Commenting on the significant changes in the relationship, Mr Shetty said: "India and Bahrain are on the rise again. Business is booming in both countries.
"Bahrain is special because it is the most liberal and most tolerant country in the Gulf and the Indian community has taken the country to its heart.
"This book gives a perspective into what it is that has made the Indian population the largest expatriate population in the kingdom. It is certainly not by chance. It's a reflection of our affinity to each other. It's a reflection of the values that Indians bring to Bahrain and the value that Baharainis give to India.
"Earlier we came as sailors, traders, tailors ... and brought with us a set of good values along with business acumen. Today we have added to that a tremendous range of other things.
"I see this book not merely as a recollection of the past but about explaining why Indians are in a big number here and predicting why Indians will continue to be so."
