On 5th April 1919, ‘Loyalty’, the first steamship of India sailed from Mumbai to London. 1964 onwards this day has been observed as National Maritime Day and all major ports observe this day to commemorate India’s seafaring traditions and journeys. GIIS Surat celebrated the National Maritime Day through a presentation on the history of seafaring in Surat and folk music and dance of the seamen and fisher women.

Sea Route to Surat

During the early period, Rander was the Principal Commercial Centre in south Bharuch. It was a very ancient town where Arabs from Kufa settled in the early thirteenth century. They succeeded in overpowering the Jain population of the town and became its rulers. They were enterprising navigators and traded with Malacca, China, Tenasarm, Pegu and Sumatra and added to the prosperity of Rander till the frequent raids from the Portuguese reduced their fortune. While Rander was declining, Surat grew in eminence. It is believed that an enterprising merchant named Gopi settled at Surat. He induced other merchants to do the same and built large houses and public places. There is a ward in the city that is known by his name, Gopipura.

The first sign of opposition to Portuguese influence on Surat waters came in August, 1608 when an English ship arrived at river Tapi and Commander Captain Hawkins brought message of His Majesty for Emperor Jehangir, who later allowed the English to trade through this port.

During first half of 17th century, principal cargo for export from Surat was cloth; both silk and cotton, stretching from Cape of Good Hope to China. This period witnessed many battles between the English and Portuguese sailors for control over Surat waters. In 1624, first trade with Holland was negotiated through Surat with export cargo of Indigo.

The French arrived in Surat for the first time in 1620 A.D. and started international trade with a modest beginning. After the Portuguese, English and Dutch, they became the fourth European community to settle and commence trading relations with this historically prosperous city. Since centuries, Surat has been popular for gold based yarn ‘Jari’ trade and weaving, in addition to providing an export outlet for agro-based products from Magdalla port.

The students learnt about the amazing history of the city of Surat that was born out of international trade and multi-cultural influence.