Q: Are there any places in the Maldives worth seeing?
A: Yes here they are; Male' fish market: The main commercial area of Male’ is
located on the northern waterfront of Male’. This area is the main hub of trade
and is a hive of activity through out the day. The waterfront and the by-lanes
in the area are crowded with shops stocked with a variety of goods. Also in
the area are the Male’ Fish Market and the Local Market selling a range of
local produce. While some ‘dhonis’ from all corners of the country unload
dried fish, fresh fruits and vegetables from the atolls others are seen loading
everything from foodstuffs to construction materials. The pace increases in
mid-afternoon as fishing ‘dhonis’ start returning with their day’s catch. The
catch, mainly tuna are carried across the road into the open-sided market and
laid out on the tiled floors. As fast as the fish are brought in they are bought
and taken away by men from all walks of life. The market is kept scrupulously
clean, washed down each day and disinfected.
The Islamic Centre: The Islamic Centre is the most vivid architectural
landmark of Male’. You would see the spectacular golden dome in all its
majesty dominating the skyline, as you approach Male’, from any direction.
The building symbolizes the importance of Islamic religion, which had ruled all
aspects of life in the country for centuries. Completed in 1984, the Centre
consists of a mosque big enough for 5000 people, an Islamic library,
conference hall, classrooms and offices.
The Local Market: The Local Market, just a block away from the Male’ Fish
Market on the northern waterfront, is divided into small stalls. Here the pace is
slower and the atmosphere peaceful, compared to the hectic activity in the
rest of this neighborhood. Each stall is filled with a variety of local produce
mainly from the atolls. Here you will find different kinds of local vegetables,
fruits and yams, packets of sweetmeat, nuts and breadfruit chips, bottles of
home made sweets and pickles and bunches of bananas hanging on coir
ropes from ceiling beams. Another building just next door sells smoked and
dried fish.
Huskuru Miskiiy: Built in the 17th century the Huskuru Miskiiy or Friday
Mosque served the population of Male’ as their main mosque for almost four
centuries, until the Islamic Centre and Grand Friday Mosque took over the
function in 1984. Built by Sultan Ibrahim Iskandhar in 1656 the mosque is a
masterpiece of coral curving and traditional workmanship - probably the best
display of coral curving anywhere in the world. The walls of the mosque are
shewn together with blocks of filigree-curved coral blocks. Heavy wooden
doors slide open to the inner sanctums with lamp hangings of wood and
panels intricately curved with Arabic writings. The area surrounding the
mosque is a cemetery with a legion of intricately curved coral headstones.
The Munnaaru or minaret in front of the mosque, used to call the faithful to
prayer was built in 1675 by the same Sultan.
Mulee-aage: Right in front of the Hukuru Miskiiy is Mulee-aage, a palace built
in 1906 by Sultan Mohamed Shamsuddeen III, replacing a house dating back
to the mid-17th century. The palace with its wrought iron gates and fretwork
friezes on its roof edges and well-kept garden was intended for his son, but
the Sultan was deposed. During World War II vegetables were grown in its
garden to help relieve food shortages. It became the President's Official
Residence when Maldives became a republic in 1953 and remained so until
1994, when the new Presidential Palace was built. At present Mulee-aage
houses the President’s Office.
The National Museum: The National Museum is housed in the only remaining
building of the former Sultan’s Palace, which is now the Sultan’s Park. It is an
Edwardian colonial-style building of three storey, fairly low key from the
outside compared to the amazing collection inside. The articles on display
range from thrones and palanquins used by former sultans to the first printing
press used in the country, the rifle used by Mohamed Thakurufaanu in his
fight against the Portuguese in the 16th century, ceremonial robes, headgear
and umbrellas used by Sultans to statues and other figures dating from 11th
century, excavated from former temples. A variety of artifacts from times past
would give an idea of the unique and rich culture and history of this island
nation. A visit to the museum gives an instant insight to the wealth of history
most visitors never suspect existed. No longer will you think of the Maldives
solely in terms of a tourist destination. The museum is open daily except
Friday and public holidays from 9.00 to 11.40 and 3.00 to 5.40. A small fee is
charges for admission.
A: Yes here they are; Male' fish market: The main commercial area of Male’ is
located on the northern waterfront of Male’. This area is the main hub of trade
and is a hive of activity through out the day. The waterfront and the by-lanes
in the area are crowded with shops stocked with a variety of goods. Also in
the area are the Male’ Fish Market and the Local Market selling a range of
local produce. While some ‘dhonis’ from all corners of the country unload
dried fish, fresh fruits and vegetables from the atolls others are seen loading
everything from foodstuffs to construction materials. The pace increases in
mid-afternoon as fishing ‘dhonis’ start returning with their day’s catch. The
catch, mainly tuna are carried across the road into the open-sided market and
laid out on the tiled floors. As fast as the fish are brought in they are bought
and taken away by men from all walks of life. The market is kept scrupulously
clean, washed down each day and disinfected.
The Islamic Centre: The Islamic Centre is the most vivid architectural
landmark of Male’. You would see the spectacular golden dome in all its
majesty dominating the skyline, as you approach Male’, from any direction.
The building symbolizes the importance of Islamic religion, which had ruled all
aspects of life in the country for centuries. Completed in 1984, the Centre
consists of a mosque big enough for 5000 people, an Islamic library,
conference hall, classrooms and offices.
The Local Market: The Local Market, just a block away from the Male’ Fish
Market on the northern waterfront, is divided into small stalls. Here the pace is
slower and the atmosphere peaceful, compared to the hectic activity in the
rest of this neighborhood. Each stall is filled with a variety of local produce
mainly from the atolls. Here you will find different kinds of local vegetables,
fruits and yams, packets of sweetmeat, nuts and breadfruit chips, bottles of
home made sweets and pickles and bunches of bananas hanging on coir
ropes from ceiling beams. Another building just next door sells smoked and
dried fish.
Huskuru Miskiiy: Built in the 17th century the Huskuru Miskiiy or Friday
Mosque served the population of Male’ as their main mosque for almost four
centuries, until the Islamic Centre and Grand Friday Mosque took over the
function in 1984. Built by Sultan Ibrahim Iskandhar in 1656 the mosque is a
masterpiece of coral curving and traditional workmanship - probably the best
display of coral curving anywhere in the world. The walls of the mosque are
shewn together with blocks of filigree-curved coral blocks. Heavy wooden
doors slide open to the inner sanctums with lamp hangings of wood and
panels intricately curved with Arabic writings. The area surrounding the
mosque is a cemetery with a legion of intricately curved coral headstones.
The Munnaaru or minaret in front of the mosque, used to call the faithful to
prayer was built in 1675 by the same Sultan.
Mulee-aage: Right in front of the Hukuru Miskiiy is Mulee-aage, a palace built
in 1906 by Sultan Mohamed Shamsuddeen III, replacing a house dating back
to the mid-17th century. The palace with its wrought iron gates and fretwork
friezes on its roof edges and well-kept garden was intended for his son, but
the Sultan was deposed. During World War II vegetables were grown in its
garden to help relieve food shortages. It became the President's Official
Residence when Maldives became a republic in 1953 and remained so until
1994, when the new Presidential Palace was built. At present Mulee-aage
houses the President’s Office.
The National Museum: The National Museum is housed in the only remaining
building of the former Sultan’s Palace, which is now the Sultan’s Park. It is an
Edwardian colonial-style building of three storey, fairly low key from the
outside compared to the amazing collection inside. The articles on display
range from thrones and palanquins used by former sultans to the first printing
press used in the country, the rifle used by Mohamed Thakurufaanu in his
fight against the Portuguese in the 16th century, ceremonial robes, headgear
and umbrellas used by Sultans to statues and other figures dating from 11th
century, excavated from former temples. A variety of artifacts from times past
would give an idea of the unique and rich culture and history of this island
nation. A visit to the museum gives an instant insight to the wealth of history
most visitors never suspect existed. No longer will you think of the Maldives
solely in terms of a tourist destination. The museum is open daily except
Friday and public holidays from 9.00 to 11.40 and 3.00 to 5.40. A small fee is
charges for admission.
Q: Where is the Maldives and can I have some information about its
geography?
A: The atolls of the Maldives referred to as a string of pearls scattered over
the deep blue Indian Ocean, formed from amazing white and coloured coral
structures which are separated by crystal clear lagoons. The atolls stretch
over 2100 kilometers and the islands are low lying with the highest point at
over eight feet above sea level.
The multicolored reefs provide natural defense against wind and wave action,
on these delicate islands and are known as 'Faru' or ring-shaped reef
structures.
The first glimpse you get of this fascinating atoll- formation confirms two
unique aspects of the Republic of Maldives. Not only does it consist of the
most beautiful tropical islands, but 99% of its 90.000 km² is covered by the
sea. 1190 islands are spread over 26 atolls, ring like coral formations
enclosing a lagoon, which gives the Maldives its unique paradise-like
appearance. They stretch for about 820 km from North to South, 130 km at
the widest point and do not exceed a length of 4.5 miles or an altitude of 6
feet above sea level. No more than 200 islands are inhabited; the rest
includes the 87 tourist resorts and uninhabited islands, some of which are
used for drying fish or other agricultural activities. The capital Malé, the seat
of government and the centre of trade, commerce, business, health and
education, is located in the middle of the atoll chain, a small island buzzing
with the sounds and activities of about 75.000 people which is about one third
of the population.
geography?
A: The atolls of the Maldives referred to as a string of pearls scattered over
the deep blue Indian Ocean, formed from amazing white and coloured coral
structures which are separated by crystal clear lagoons. The atolls stretch
over 2100 kilometers and the islands are low lying with the highest point at
over eight feet above sea level.
The multicolored reefs provide natural defense against wind and wave action,
on these delicate islands and are known as 'Faru' or ring-shaped reef
structures.
The first glimpse you get of this fascinating atoll- formation confirms two
unique aspects of the Republic of Maldives. Not only does it consist of the
most beautiful tropical islands, but 99% of its 90.000 km² is covered by the
sea. 1190 islands are spread over 26 atolls, ring like coral formations
enclosing a lagoon, which gives the Maldives its unique paradise-like
appearance. They stretch for about 820 km from North to South, 130 km at
the widest point and do not exceed a length of 4.5 miles or an altitude of 6
feet above sea level. No more than 200 islands are inhabited; the rest
includes the 87 tourist resorts and uninhabited islands, some of which are
used for drying fish or other agricultural activities. The capital Malé, the seat
of government and the centre of trade, commerce, business, health and
education, is located in the middle of the atoll chain, a small island buzzing
with the sounds and activities of about 75.000 people which is about one third
of the population.
Thousands of ‘Robinson Crusoe’ islands,sun, sand and sea surrounded by
massive lagoons with different depths and infinite shades of blue and
turquoise, dazzling underwater coral gardens; a perfect natural combination
for the ideal tropical holiday destination.
massive lagoons with different depths and infinite shades of blue and
turquoise, dazzling underwater coral gardens; a perfect natural combination
for the ideal tropical holiday destination.
On the equator, Southwest of Sri Lanka. 1,190 coral islands,makes up an
archipelago of 26 major atolls. 820 kilometres, north to south and 120
kilometres east to west. 202 are inhabited, 87 are exclusive resort islands.
archipelago of 26 major atolls. 820 kilometres, north to south and 120
kilometres east to west. 202 are inhabited, 87 are exclusive resort islands.
Generally warm and humid. Sun shines all year through. Average temperature
around 29 - 32 degrees Celsius.
around 29 - 32 degrees Celsius.
Dress is generally casual. T-shirts and cotton clothing are most suitable. In
Male’, the capital island and other inhabited islands it is recommended that
women wear modest clothing without baring too much.
Male’, the capital island and other inhabited islands it is recommended that
women wear modest clothing without baring too much.
300,000 since 2006. Origin of the Maldivians is not known, but history reveals
that the islands have been populated for over 3,000 years ago. Early settlers
were travelers on the Silk Route and from the Indus Valley Civilization.
Inherently warm, friendly and hospitable by nature, it is easy to feel
comfortable and relaxed with a Maldivian.
that the islands have been populated for over 3,000 years ago. Early settlers
were travelers on the Silk Route and from the Indus Valley Civilization.
Inherently warm, friendly and hospitable by nature, it is easy to feel
comfortable and relaxed with a Maldivian.
A proud history and rich culture evolved from the first settlers who were from
various parts of the world traveling the seas in ancient times. The Maldives
has been a melting pot of different cultures as people from different parts of
the world came here and settled down. Some of the local music and dance for
instance resemble African influences, with hand beating of drums and songs
in a language that is not known to any but certainly represents that of East
African countries. As one would expect there is a great South Asian influence
in some of the music and dancing and especially in the traditional food of the
Maldivians. However many of the South Asian customs especially with regard
to women - for instance the Sub Continent’s tradition of secluding women from
public view - are not tenets of life here. In fact women play a major role in
society - not surprising considering the fact men spend the whole day out at
sea fishing. Many of the traditions are strongly related to the seas and the
fact that life is dependent on the seas around us
various parts of the world traveling the seas in ancient times. The Maldives
has been a melting pot of different cultures as people from different parts of
the world came here and settled down. Some of the local music and dance for
instance resemble African influences, with hand beating of drums and songs
in a language that is not known to any but certainly represents that of East
African countries. As one would expect there is a great South Asian influence
in some of the music and dancing and especially in the traditional food of the
Maldivians. However many of the South Asian customs especially with regard
to women - for instance the Sub Continent’s tradition of secluding women from
public view - are not tenets of life here. In fact women play a major role in
society - not surprising considering the fact men spend the whole day out at
sea fishing. Many of the traditions are strongly related to the seas and the
fact that life is dependent on the seas around us
Dhivehi is the language spoken in all parts of the Maldives. English is widely
spoken by Maldivians and visitors can easily make themselves understood
getting around the capital island. In the resorts, a variety of languages are
spoken by the staff including English, German, French, Italian and Japanese.
spoken by Maldivians and visitors can easily make themselves understood
getting around the capital island. In the resorts, a variety of languages are
spoken by the staff including English, German, French, Italian and Japanese.
The Maldivian currency is the Rufiyaa and Laaree. The exchange rate for US
Dollar at the time of writing is MRf.11.82 for the dollar. One Rufiyaa is
equivalent to 100 laarees. Rufiyaa bank notes come in denominations of 5,
10, 20, 50, 100 and 500. Coins are in the denominations of MRf.2.00, MRf.
1.00, 50 laarees, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 laaree. The US Dollar is the most
commonly used foreign currency. Payments in the resorts and hotels can be
made in most hard currency in cash, travelers’ cheques or credit cards.
Commonly used credit cards are American Express, Visa, Master Card, Diners
Club, JCB and Euro Card.
Dollar at the time of writing is MRf.11.82 for the dollar. One Rufiyaa is
equivalent to 100 laarees. Rufiyaa bank notes come in denominations of 5,
10, 20, 50, 100 and 500. Coins are in the denominations of MRf.2.00, MRf.
1.00, 50 laarees, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 laaree. The US Dollar is the most
commonly used foreign currency. Payments in the resorts and hotels can be
made in most hard currency in cash, travelers’ cheques or credit cards.
Commonly used credit cards are American Express, Visa, Master Card, Diners
Club, JCB and Euro Card.
The Maldives economy has been growing at an annual average of 10% for
the past two decades. Tourism is the main industry, contributing close to 20%
of the GDP. Fisheries and trade follow close behind. The Maldivian economy
is regarded as exemplary in the region and welcomes foreign investment.
the past two decades. Tourism is the main industry, contributing close to 20%
of the GDP. Fisheries and trade follow close behind. The Maldivian economy
is regarded as exemplary in the region and welcomes foreign investment.
The functional literacy rate is 98%. Educational standards are among the
highest in the region and schools follow the British system of education.
highest in the region and schools follow the British system of education.
Health care facilities are improving almost on a daily basis. The Indhira
Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) in Male’ is the biggest hospital in the
country providing sophisticated medical care. ADK Hospital is the biggest
private health care facility and follows high medical standards. Some resorts
have in-house doctors. A decompression chamber is within easy reach of
most resorts in case of a diving emergency.
Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) in Male’ is the biggest hospital in the
country providing sophisticated medical care. ADK Hospital is the biggest
private health care facility and follows high medical standards. Some resorts
have in-house doctors. A decompression chamber is within easy reach of
most resorts in case of a diving emergency.
Electricity The electric system is 230-240 Volts -AC
Business Hours From Sunday to Thursday 7.30 - 14.30 in the government
sector and generally from 9.00 to 5.00 in the private sector, although most
offices in the private sector open for a half day on Saturday. Weekend falls on
Friday and Saturday.
sector and generally from 9.00 to 5.00 in the private sector, although most
offices in the private sector open for a half day on Saturday. Weekend falls on
Friday and Saturday.
Communication Up-to-date technology and international satellite links allow
Maldives to have a sophisticated communications system. IDD facilities are
available on all resorts and card phones are available on all inhabited islands.
Maldives to have a sophisticated communications system. IDD facilities are
available on all resorts and card phones are available on all inhabited islands.
Local Time GMT + 5 hours
Q: What’s the climate like?
A: In a nation with less than one percent land and over 99 percent sea, the
weather obviously plays a significant role in day-to-day life. For a long time
Maldivians have organized their lives based on a system on nakaiy. Each
nakaiy is 13 or 14 days long and is divided into two seasons; iruvai northest
monsoon and hulhangu south west monsoon. The nakaiy calendar is still
used to determine such things as the best time for fishing, travel or planting
crops.
The Maldives has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year round and a
great deal of sunshine. The warm tropical climate results in relatively minor
variations in daily temperature throughout the year. The hottest month on
average is April and the coolest, December. The weather is determined
largely by the monsoons.
There is a significant variation in the monthly rainfall levels. February is the
driest with January to April being relatively dry, May and October records the
highest average monthly rainfall. The southwest monsoon or hulhangu from
May to September is the wet season. Rough seas and strong winds are
common during this period. The northeast monsoon iruvai falls between
December to April. This is a period of clear skies, lower humidity and very little
rain. The Maldives is in the equatorial belt and therefore severe storms and
cyclones are extremely rare events. However the country is affected whenever
cyclones form in the Bay of Bengal or the Arabian Sea. The spiraling clouds
of the weather systems appear over the Maldives causing spells of rain.
A: In a nation with less than one percent land and over 99 percent sea, the
weather obviously plays a significant role in day-to-day life. For a long time
Maldivians have organized their lives based on a system on nakaiy. Each
nakaiy is 13 or 14 days long and is divided into two seasons; iruvai northest
monsoon and hulhangu south west monsoon. The nakaiy calendar is still
used to determine such things as the best time for fishing, travel or planting
crops.
The Maldives has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year round and a
great deal of sunshine. The warm tropical climate results in relatively minor
variations in daily temperature throughout the year. The hottest month on
average is April and the coolest, December. The weather is determined
largely by the monsoons.
There is a significant variation in the monthly rainfall levels. February is the
driest with January to April being relatively dry, May and October records the
highest average monthly rainfall. The southwest monsoon or hulhangu from
May to September is the wet season. Rough seas and strong winds are
common during this period. The northeast monsoon iruvai falls between
December to April. This is a period of clear skies, lower humidity and very little
rain. The Maldives is in the equatorial belt and therefore severe storms and
cyclones are extremely rare events. However the country is affected whenever
cyclones form in the Bay of Bengal or the Arabian Sea. The spiraling clouds
of the weather systems appear over the Maldives causing spells of rain.
Q: What about the first settlers in the Maldives?
A:Legend has it that a prince and his wife, the daughter of the King of today’s
SriLanka, stopped at Raa Atoll during a voyage and were invited to stay as
rulers. Later King Koimala and his wife settled in Malé with permission of the
Giraavaru tribe, the aboriginal tribe of Kaafu atoll. Nowadays Giraavaru
people are still easily recognisable through their clothes and hairstyle, but
only a few hundred of them are left and were resettled in Malé in 1978. Their
island, Giraavaru has been transformed into a tourist resort. Aryans from
India and Sri Lanka are believed to have settled in the Maldives from 1500 BC
onwards - according to latest archaeological findings. “Elu”, an archaic form of
Sinhala (spoken in Sri Lanka) shows great similarities to Dhivehi. As a
favourite stop-over on the busy trade routes, the Maldives have had many
visitors and influences, trading with Arabia, China and India with coconut,
dried fish and above all the precious cowry shell, a small white shell found on
the beach, used as currency in countries near the Indian Ocean. These shells
were found as far away as Norway or West Africa showing the extent of the
trade relations of the Maldives.
A:Legend has it that a prince and his wife, the daughter of the King of today’s
SriLanka, stopped at Raa Atoll during a voyage and were invited to stay as
rulers. Later King Koimala and his wife settled in Malé with permission of the
Giraavaru tribe, the aboriginal tribe of Kaafu atoll. Nowadays Giraavaru
people are still easily recognisable through their clothes and hairstyle, but
only a few hundred of them are left and were resettled in Malé in 1978. Their
island, Giraavaru has been transformed into a tourist resort. Aryans from
India and Sri Lanka are believed to have settled in the Maldives from 1500 BC
onwards - according to latest archaeological findings. “Elu”, an archaic form of
Sinhala (spoken in Sri Lanka) shows great similarities to Dhivehi. As a
favourite stop-over on the busy trade routes, the Maldives have had many
visitors and influences, trading with Arabia, China and India with coconut,
dried fish and above all the precious cowry shell, a small white shell found on
the beach, used as currency in countries near the Indian Ocean. These shells
were found as far away as Norway or West Africa showing the extent of the
trade relations of the Maldives.
Q: Where do you think the first settlers came from?
A: The origins of the Maldivian people are shrouded in mystery. The First
settlers may well have been from Sri Lanka and Southern India. Some say
Aryans, who sailed in their reed boats from the Indus Valley about 4,000
years ago, probably followed them. Archeological evidence suggests the
existence Hinduism and Buddhism before the country embraced Islam in 1153
A.D.Not surprisingly, the faces of today’s Maldivian display the features of
various faces that inhabit the lands around the Indian Ocean shipping and
maritime routes, the Maldives has long been a melting pot for African, Arab
and South East Asian mariners.
A: The origins of the Maldivian people are shrouded in mystery. The First
settlers may well have been from Sri Lanka and Southern India. Some say
Aryans, who sailed in their reed boats from the Indus Valley about 4,000
years ago, probably followed them. Archeological evidence suggests the
existence Hinduism and Buddhism before the country embraced Islam in 1153
A.D.Not surprisingly, the faces of today’s Maldivian display the features of
various faces that inhabit the lands around the Indian Ocean shipping and
maritime routes, the Maldives has long been a melting pot for African, Arab
and South East Asian mariners.
Q: What languages do they speak?
A: The language of the Maldivians is Dhivehi, a language which is placed in
the Indro-Indian group of languages. Dhivehi with its roots in Sanskrit and
according to some researchers Elu, an ancient form of Sinhala, (spoken in Sri
Lanka), is strongly influenced by the major lanuguages of the region. The
language has been influenced heavily from Arabic since the advent of the
Islam in 1153 and English in more recent times, especially since the
introduction of English as a medium of education in the early 1960s.
Given the wide dispersion of islands it is not surprising that the vocabulary
and pronunciation vary from atoll to atoll, with the difference being more
significant in the dialects spoken in the southernmost atolls.
The Maldivian script known as thaana was invented during the 16th century
soon after the country was liberated from Portuguese rule. Unlike former
scripts thaana is written from right to left. This was devised to accommodate
Arabic words that are frequently used in Dhivehi. There are 24 letters in the
thaana alphabet.
A: The language of the Maldivians is Dhivehi, a language which is placed in
the Indro-Indian group of languages. Dhivehi with its roots in Sanskrit and
according to some researchers Elu, an ancient form of Sinhala, (spoken in Sri
Lanka), is strongly influenced by the major lanuguages of the region. The
language has been influenced heavily from Arabic since the advent of the
Islam in 1153 and English in more recent times, especially since the
introduction of English as a medium of education in the early 1960s.
Given the wide dispersion of islands it is not surprising that the vocabulary
and pronunciation vary from atoll to atoll, with the difference being more
significant in the dialects spoken in the southernmost atolls.
The Maldivian script known as thaana was invented during the 16th century
soon after the country was liberated from Portuguese rule. Unlike former
scripts thaana is written from right to left. This was devised to accommodate
Arabic words that are frequently used in Dhivehi. There are 24 letters in the
thaana alphabet.
Q: What is the population in the Maldives?
The population of Maldives has increased rapidly during the last few decades.
However with a population of 300,000 the country still remains one of the
smallest nations in Asia.
The population of Maldives has increased rapidly during the last few decades.
However with a population of 300,000 the country still remains one of the
smallest nations in Asia.
Q: Do they all live in one island?
About a quarter of the population is resident in Male’ the capital. Outside
Male’ the largest population are in Hithadhoo in Addu Atoll, Fuamulah and
Kulhudhufushi in Haa Dhaalu Atoll with 9,640, 7243 and 6,354 respectively.
The rest is dispersed sparsely in the rest of the 200 inhabited islands.
About a quarter of the population is resident in Male’ the capital. Outside
Male’ the largest population are in Hithadhoo in Addu Atoll, Fuamulah and
Kulhudhufushi in Haa Dhaalu Atoll with 9,640, 7243 and 6,354 respectively.
The rest is dispersed sparsely in the rest of the 200 inhabited islands.
Q: What were women’s roles in the Maldives?
A: Women have always had an important role in the family and community. In
the early history of Maldives, it was not uncommon to have a woman as a
Sultana or ruler and it has been suggested that the society was once a
matriarchy
A: Women have always had an important role in the family and community. In
the early history of Maldives, it was not uncommon to have a woman as a
Sultana or ruler and it has been suggested that the society was once a
matriarchy
Q: Tell me about the family life of the Maldivians!
A: The close-knit island communities practice mutual aid to survive difficult
circumstances. Systems of extended families provide a safety net for
members of a family going through a difficult period. In addition to the parents
other members of the family also contribute in the care of children.
Traditionally men go out fishing during the day and women are responsible to
look after the affairs of the family and vary often the community. This remains
so even today in smaller island communities.
A: The close-knit island communities practice mutual aid to survive difficult
circumstances. Systems of extended families provide a safety net for
members of a family going through a difficult period. In addition to the parents
other members of the family also contribute in the care of children.
Traditionally men go out fishing during the day and women are responsible to
look after the affairs of the family and vary often the community. This remains
so even today in smaller island communities.
Q: What religion do the Maldivians follow?
A: Since Maldives embraced Islam in 1153, Islam has been central to the life
of Maldivians. The main events and festivals of Maldivian life follow the Muslim
Calendar. From infancy children are taught the Arabic alphabet. Religious
education is provided both at home and at school. Islam is part of the school
curriculum and is taught concurrently with other subjects.
A: Since Maldives embraced Islam in 1153, Islam has been central to the life
of Maldivians. The main events and festivals of Maldivian life follow the Muslim
Calendar. From infancy children are taught the Arabic alphabet. Religious
education is provided both at home and at school. Islam is part of the school
curriculum and is taught concurrently with other subjects.
Q: Is there a story or an interesting legend behind the Maldives?
A: According to the legend, in the 14th century Abul Barakaath Yoosuf Al
Barbary, an Islamic scholar, visited the Maldives at a time when people lived in
fear of the “Rannamaari”, a sea-demon, who came out of the sea once a
month threatening to destroy everything unless a virgin was sacrificed. The
unfortunate young girls were chosen by lot, had to stay in a temple near the
seashore and were found raped and dead in the morning. The daughter of
the house he was staying at had been selected to be the victim and he
decided to save her. Disguised as a girl he spent the night in the temple
reciting continuously from the Holy Quran. In the morning when people went to
find out the fate of the chosen girl they were amazed to find him alive and still
reciting the Quran. When the King found out that the demon had been
defeated through the power of the Holy Quran he embraced Islam and
ordered all the subjects to follow him.
A: According to the legend, in the 14th century Abul Barakaath Yoosuf Al
Barbary, an Islamic scholar, visited the Maldives at a time when people lived in
fear of the “Rannamaari”, a sea-demon, who came out of the sea once a
month threatening to destroy everything unless a virgin was sacrificed. The
unfortunate young girls were chosen by lot, had to stay in a temple near the
seashore and were found raped and dead in the morning. The daughter of
the house he was staying at had been selected to be the victim and he
decided to save her. Disguised as a girl he spent the night in the temple
reciting continuously from the Holy Quran. In the morning when people went to
find out the fate of the chosen girl they were amazed to find him alive and still
reciting the Quran. When the King found out that the demon had been
defeated through the power of the Holy Quran he embraced Islam and
ordered all the subjects to follow him.
Q: Was the Maldives invaded by any country at any time?
A: The Portuguese had a keen interest in the Maldives due to the availability
of cowry shells, and ambergris, an important ingredient in perfumes, and had
been approached by the formerly expelled Sultan, Hassan IX to help him
regain his throne. Three attempts were repelled mainly due to Ali
Rasgefaanu, who proved to be a brave and tough fighter. He became Sultan
Ali VI but only for a few months as he was killed during another Portuguese
attack, dying a martyr’s death. His tomb, built at the very spot where he died
in the sea is now on dry land due to the reclamation of land in Malé. Martyr’s
day, a public holiday, has been devoted to him. The next 15 years saw the
darkest period in Maldivian history, when the Portuguese tried to enforce
Christianity upon the islanders. Mohamed Thakurufaanu and his two brothers
from the island of Utheemu, used a form of guerilla warfare for eight long
years, during which one of the brothers was caught and beheaded. Their
strategy was to land on an island at night, kill the Portuguese in a surprise
attack and sail off before dawn. Thakurufaanu sought the help of the
Malabari, killed the Portuguese leader Andreas Andre, locally known as Andiri
Andirin, and recaptured Malé. He was made Sultan and reined for 12 years
forming a trained standing army, introducing coins, improving trade and
religious observance and founding a dynasty that lasted for 132 years.
A: The Portuguese had a keen interest in the Maldives due to the availability
of cowry shells, and ambergris, an important ingredient in perfumes, and had
been approached by the formerly expelled Sultan, Hassan IX to help him
regain his throne. Three attempts were repelled mainly due to Ali
Rasgefaanu, who proved to be a brave and tough fighter. He became Sultan
Ali VI but only for a few months as he was killed during another Portuguese
attack, dying a martyr’s death. His tomb, built at the very spot where he died
in the sea is now on dry land due to the reclamation of land in Malé. Martyr’s
day, a public holiday, has been devoted to him. The next 15 years saw the
darkest period in Maldivian history, when the Portuguese tried to enforce
Christianity upon the islanders. Mohamed Thakurufaanu and his two brothers
from the island of Utheemu, used a form of guerilla warfare for eight long
years, during which one of the brothers was caught and beheaded. Their
strategy was to land on an island at night, kill the Portuguese in a surprise
attack and sail off before dawn. Thakurufaanu sought the help of the
Malabari, killed the Portuguese leader Andreas Andre, locally known as Andiri
Andirin, and recaptured Malé. He was made Sultan and reined for 12 years
forming a trained standing army, introducing coins, improving trade and
religious observance and founding a dynasty that lasted for 132 years.
Q: What about the British Protectorate?
A: On December 16, 1887 the Sultan of the Maldives signed a contract with
the British Governor of Ceylon turning the Maldives into a British protectorate.
The British government promised the Maldives military protection and
non-interference in local administration in exchange for an annual tribute paid
by the Maldives. In 1957 the British established a RAF base in the strategic
southernmost atoll of Addu for £2000 a year, where hundreds of locals were
employed. 19 years later the British government decided to give up the base,
as it was too expensive to maintain.
A: On December 16, 1887 the Sultan of the Maldives signed a contract with
the British Governor of Ceylon turning the Maldives into a British protectorate.
The British government promised the Maldives military protection and
non-interference in local administration in exchange for an annual tribute paid
by the Maldives. In 1957 the British established a RAF base in the strategic
southernmost atoll of Addu for £2000 a year, where hundreds of locals were
employed. 19 years later the British government decided to give up the base,
as it was too expensive to maintain.
Q: Do the Maldivians have any interest in Arts and Craft?
A: The beautifully carved tombstones in some of the old cemeteries and the
fine stone carving of the Hukuru Miskiiy in Male’ bear witness to the intricate
skills of Maldivian stone carvers of the past. Maldivians are deft craftsman
producing beautifully crafted pieces mostly out of what is available locally.
Although many of the skills have been passed on from generation to
generation and lives on even today.The art calligraphy has strong
connections with the Islam. Old and new mosques display beautifully penned
versus from the Holy Quran. The Islamic Center exhibits some of the finest
samples of the work of modern calligraphers in the country.While many crafts
have become obsolete; others have found new life with the advent of tourism.
The production of ornaments from tortoise shells and black coral once valued
by visitors has now ceased completely because of the growing careness
among the public on the need to preserve the environment.
Wooden Lacquer Ware - Perhaps the most distinctive of the Maldivian
handicrafts, these are almost exlclusively produced in Thulhaadhoo in Baa
Atoll. Liye Laajehun as it is called in Dhivehi involves the process of shaping
and hollowing out pieces of wood to form beautifully crafted boxes, containers
and ornamental objects. Made from the local funa, (Alexandrian laurel) which
grows abundantly throughout the country, they come in various shapes and
sizes; small pillboxes, vases of various sizes to round and oval plates with lids.
These elegant pieces are lacquered in strands of red, black and yellow resin
and delicately carved with flowing flowery patterns.
Mats - Beautiful red mats are woven throughout the country, the most famous
of which are those that are woven by the women of Gadhdhoo in Gaafu
Dhaalu Atoll. Thundu Kunaa as they are known in Dhivehi ranges in size from
that of a place mat to a full size single mattress. The women of Gadhdhoo
collect the reeds called haa from the nearby island of Fioari. They are dried in
the sun and stained with natural dyes, the colour varying from fawn to black.
These mats with their intricate abstract designs are woven on a handloom
according to the imagination and skill of the weaver.
Boat building - Although the tools used in the building of dhonis have
changed, little has changed of its basic design. As in the past, the boats are
still being built without a documented plan. The design and symmetry of the
boat emerges as the boat is being built.
Imported hardwoods are used in the place of coconut wood, which was used
in place of coconut wood, which was used in the past to make the hull. Copper
rivets are used to hold the planks together instead of coir, which was used for
the purpose even half a century ago. The square sail made of coconut fronds
gave way to a triangular lateen sail. Even though this is still considered
essential and is carried on board, it is used only during emergencies or to
ease the strain of the engines. Almost all Dhonis are driven by diesel power.
Dhonis are mainly used for fishing and provide the livehood for a large
proportion of the population. Others are modified to be used for
transportation of passengers.
A dhoni may be as small as 10ft. (3 m) used mostly to travel across short
distances or to traverse the shallow waters of the lagoon. Islanders often use
these ferry across to nearby islands for firewood. The average fishing dhoni
used to be around 10 metres (33 feett), however the new generation fishing
vessels can be twice the size or even larger. The basic design of dhonis has
proven to be seaworthy as it has been tested and tuned for centuries. Even
luxury cruise vessels that are built in the country uses the same basic hull
design and can be as long as 30 meters (100 feet) or more.
A: The beautifully carved tombstones in some of the old cemeteries and the
fine stone carving of the Hukuru Miskiiy in Male’ bear witness to the intricate
skills of Maldivian stone carvers of the past. Maldivians are deft craftsman
producing beautifully crafted pieces mostly out of what is available locally.
Although many of the skills have been passed on from generation to
generation and lives on even today.The art calligraphy has strong
connections with the Islam. Old and new mosques display beautifully penned
versus from the Holy Quran. The Islamic Center exhibits some of the finest
samples of the work of modern calligraphers in the country.While many crafts
have become obsolete; others have found new life with the advent of tourism.
The production of ornaments from tortoise shells and black coral once valued
by visitors has now ceased completely because of the growing careness
among the public on the need to preserve the environment.
Wooden Lacquer Ware - Perhaps the most distinctive of the Maldivian
handicrafts, these are almost exlclusively produced in Thulhaadhoo in Baa
Atoll. Liye Laajehun as it is called in Dhivehi involves the process of shaping
and hollowing out pieces of wood to form beautifully crafted boxes, containers
and ornamental objects. Made from the local funa, (Alexandrian laurel) which
grows abundantly throughout the country, they come in various shapes and
sizes; small pillboxes, vases of various sizes to round and oval plates with lids.
These elegant pieces are lacquered in strands of red, black and yellow resin
and delicately carved with flowing flowery patterns.
Mats - Beautiful red mats are woven throughout the country, the most famous
of which are those that are woven by the women of Gadhdhoo in Gaafu
Dhaalu Atoll. Thundu Kunaa as they are known in Dhivehi ranges in size from
that of a place mat to a full size single mattress. The women of Gadhdhoo
collect the reeds called haa from the nearby island of Fioari. They are dried in
the sun and stained with natural dyes, the colour varying from fawn to black.
These mats with their intricate abstract designs are woven on a handloom
according to the imagination and skill of the weaver.
Boat building - Although the tools used in the building of dhonis have
changed, little has changed of its basic design. As in the past, the boats are
still being built without a documented plan. The design and symmetry of the
boat emerges as the boat is being built.
Imported hardwoods are used in the place of coconut wood, which was used
in place of coconut wood, which was used in the past to make the hull. Copper
rivets are used to hold the planks together instead of coir, which was used for
the purpose even half a century ago. The square sail made of coconut fronds
gave way to a triangular lateen sail. Even though this is still considered
essential and is carried on board, it is used only during emergencies or to
ease the strain of the engines. Almost all Dhonis are driven by diesel power.
Dhonis are mainly used for fishing and provide the livehood for a large
proportion of the population. Others are modified to be used for
transportation of passengers.
A dhoni may be as small as 10ft. (3 m) used mostly to travel across short
distances or to traverse the shallow waters of the lagoon. Islanders often use
these ferry across to nearby islands for firewood. The average fishing dhoni
used to be around 10 metres (33 feett), however the new generation fishing
vessels can be twice the size or even larger. The basic design of dhonis has
proven to be seaworthy as it has been tested and tuned for centuries. Even
luxury cruise vessels that are built in the country uses the same basic hull
design and can be as long as 30 meters (100 feet) or more.
| © 2006 Leewaymaldives.com, Leeway Maldives Pvt Ltd, Male, Tel: +960 999 2444, Fax: +960 332 2455, e-mail: info@leewaymaldives.com |
Q: When did the country gain independence?
A: The Maldives gained independence on July 26, 1965.Three years later a
republic was declared with Prime Minister Ibrahim Nasir as the first president.
A: The Maldives gained independence on July 26, 1965.Three years later a
republic was declared with Prime Minister Ibrahim Nasir as the first president.