Joanna James
Pristine beaches, azure blue seas, heaven on earth for holiday-seekers around the world—the Maldives wouldn't be the hotspot tourist destination it is today if it weren't for its national heroes. Run your eyes over the valorous legends who fought for the freedom of your favourite island nation.
A captain, environmentalist and military strategist, Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al Auzam is the national hero of the archipelagic nation of Maldives. Bodu Thakurufaanu, Utheemu Muhammad Thakurufaanu or the famously known Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al Auzam, is the heroic Maldivian legend who put an end to the cruel and harsh ruling of the Portuguese. The Portuguese invaded the Maldives in 1558 AD after murdering Sultan Ali VI in the capital island Male and ruled the country for a gruesome 15 and a half years. Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al Auzam, the young and valorous patriot coming from HA Utheemu, was determined to die for his country and set off on a daring voyage to free the island nation of the occupation by the Portuguese. Today, he is hailed as a national hero of the Maldives who helped the country gain independence by driving out the Portuguese in 1573 AD.
Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al Auzam didn't go to war all by himself, his brothers, Ali and Hasan Al Auzam, weren't a tad bit hesitant to join their valiant elder brother, even if it meant losing their lives for the freedom of their country. The three Al Auzam brothers set sail from the Maldives and embarked on a voyage to Maliku, off the coast of India in the Laccadive Archipelago, where they began their first battles against the Portuguese.
An unsung hero of Maldivian history, the renowned Maroshi Raaveribe, aka the toddy tapper, played a vital role in gaining independence for the archipelagic nation. Without his aid to Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al Auzam and the brothers, victory would have definitely been difficult or not possible entirely. Maroshi Raaveribe was in charge of mending and keeping Kalhuoffummi in good shape—the sailboat that took the three brothers across the waters for battles.
On another note, if you find yourself fascinated by the glorious past of this tropical island paradise, consider booking a vacation at an elegant Maldives overwater villa, such as the likes offered by OZEN Life Maadhoo.
Dhuvaafaru Dhandehelu is another unsung hero similar to Maroshi Raaveribe, but not as appraised as him. Coming from the island of Dhuvaafaru, thus Dhuvaafaru Dhandehelu, he is a vigilant and valiant patriot who aided Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al Auzam and the brothers gain victory.
Katheebu Husain of Utheemu - the island chief Husain of Utheemu, and Lady Amina Dio are the parents of the national hero of the Maldives, As-Sulṭaan al-Ghaazee Muhammad Thakurufaanu al-A'uẓam. Although they have not directly played a part in gaining independence, Maldivians hail them as heroes as well for bringing forth a heroic figure to their archipelagic nation.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
