As one of the best Nabati poets of the 20th century, Ousha bint Khalifa Al Suwaidi, better known as Ousha Al Suwaidi (Ousha the Poet), is honoured in today’s Google Doodle. The Doodle of the Emirati poet was created by guest artist Reem Al Mazrouei, who resides in Abu Dhabi.
In 2011, a renowned occasion honoured her literary achievements on this day. Several well-known poets read poetry by and in honour of Ousha Al Suwaidi during this event. In Ousha Al Suwaidi’s honour, the poetry community also created an annual prize for female Emirati poets. She was also honoured with a part of the Dubai Women’s Museum and a library at the Emirates International School.
Ousha Al Suwaidi was born in Al Ain on January 1st, 1920. She was affectionately known as “Fatat Al Arab” (The Girl of the Gulf). Ousha Al Suwaidi, who was born into a literary-loving family, was surrounded by beautiful poetry as she grew up. She became well-known across the country at the age of 15 for her stirring poetry recitals. The subsequent generation of female poets gained access because to Ousha Al Suwaidi’s success in a genre that was predominately male.
Many of her poetry, which include themes like love, wisdom, patriotism, and nostalgia, were inspired by the Arabian Gulf and desert vistas. Her personal experiences in the United Arab Emirates are detailed in the Nabati poems, which also discuss the history and rich culture of the nation.
Ousha Al Suwaidi is remembered today for her profound work, which helped open the road for Arab women poets. Many of her writings have been immortalised in songs by well-known Emirati and Arab musicians for global audiences to hear.
Thank you for your beautiful written prose, Ousha Al Suwaidi!