Having been recognized as a prominent commercial centre in the days of yore due to its location in the midst of the Silk Route, the Maldivian culture has been enriched by cultures of visiting travellers and merchants. Even to this day, the Arabian, East African and sub continental influences are evident in their culture, traditions and even the language they speak; Divehi.
Over the years tourism has taken centre stage and become the most pivotal sector of the Maldivian economy. A traveller would never be disappointed during a visit to this kingdom of tiny islands, as there are plenty of things to see and do. It is worth spending a few evenings attending a dance performance or recital whilst you are there as it will be perfectly unique.
Most acts of dance and music have been brought to life for a specific purpose, such as the Gaa odi lava, which is a performance that takes place to commemorate a day of hard labour, Kulhudhuffushi which has been created to ward off evil spirits and Thaara a religious recital.
However, the most popular and widely practiced type of music is the boduberu, which is entirely home-grown. The beat starts off at an adagio and gradually reaches a crescendo, accompanied by fast paced dance moves. The history of boduberu’s existence in Maldives is known to date back to the 11th century and is executed with the help of small bamboo sticks and bells. These songs feature any and almost every kind of topic that can be thought of musically.
Dances such as the bolimalaafath neshun, which were performed by two dozens of ladies when presenting gifts to the Sultan as a mark of patriotism have gone out of existence since the Maldives became a republic, but if you are really lucky, at an opportune moment there is still a possibility to see these dance routines on exceptional occasions.
This cultural hub is a nation that has enough and more natural beauty to boast of as well. Thus,cruises Maldives island are not to be missed. The Atoll Explorer offers you one of the most comfortable rides to tour around the country and was one of the first yachts to offer Maldives Liveaboards diving cruises.
