May and Gilan (Arabic: مي و غيلان, romanized: May and Ghilân; also spelled Mai and Ghaylan[1]) is a legend, or hikâya, originating from Qatar. In Qatari folklore, the tale of May and Ghilân has been celebrated as a foundational narrative, often recounted through oral tradition. Ghilân, a prominent figure in Qatar's maritime history, is depicted by some as the progenitor of pearl fishing, the historical mainstay of Qatar's inhabitants.[2]
The narrative unfolds in Khor Al Muhanadah (now Al Khor) in northeast Qatar, where Ghilân, an affluent boat owner, commands a fleet of vessels engaged in pearl fishing. His authority is challenged by the arrival of May, a daring woman who emerges as a formidable competitor in the industry. Despite Ghilân's initial dominance, May's superior boats and crew pose a formidable threat to his supremacy.[2]
A pivotal moment occurs when May's boats, propelled by skilled rowers, outpace Ghilân's vessels on the route to the pearl oyster beds.
When her boat outpaced that of Ghaylen, he became irritated and implored her for assistance in towing. She responded with a sarcastic remark: “the rope is in the minds of paddles.” During that era, pearl fishing was commonly conducted using row boats.[3] In a moment of indignation, Ghilân devises a cunning strategy to regain his advantage. Inspired by the sight of a grasshopper's wings, he conceives the idea of utilizing sails to harness the wind's power. The implementation of sail technology enables Ghilân's boats to surpass May's, leading to his triumph.[2]
The tale intertwines themes of competition, innovation, and gender dynamics, reflecting the complexities of traditional Arabian culture. May's boldness challenges conventional gender roles, while Ghilân's strategic prowess reinforces his status as a revered leader.[2]
While the legend of May and Ghilân has endured within Qatari folklore, its widespread dissemination has been limited primarily to the locality of Al Khor. According to tradition, the myth originated from the local Al Muhannadi tribe. Despite efforts to preserve oral traditions, the story's transmission has been widely reduced after several generations.[2]
Preservation
A written version of the legend is currently on display in the Al Khor Museum.[4]
Modern adaptations
Qatari playwright Abdulrahman Al Mannai made a theatrical adaptation of the legend in 2006 at the fifth edition of the Doha Cultural Festival hosted by the National Council for Culture, Arts and Heritage.[3] The play took place at Qatar National Theatre. An operetta featuring traditional sea music and dances, over 120 performers took part in the play. Matar Ali and Fouad Al-Hariri composed and arranged the musical notes of the operetta, while Faisal Al-Tamimi directed the acting performances.[5]
As part of a four-part series of animated shorts revolving around Qatar's folk heritage released by Qatar Museums in December 2023, the tale of May and Ghilan featured as the series' inaugural episode. It was produced by Sheikha Roda Al Thani.[1]
