Joanna James
There is no doubt that Maldivian festivals are ripe with traditions and culture and ultimately pay homage to the history of this island nation. Here is a list of 5 famous festivals that you should try to attend during your vacation in the archipelago!
Falling on the ninth month of the Lunar calendar, Ramada is a holy festival where devotees fast, pray, reflect and engage in charity for 30 days. The last few days of Ramadan are considered to be especially auspicious as it is believed during this time that the Quran's first verses were revealed to Prophet Mohammad. With the majority of Maldivian being Muslims, one will notice that government institutions only function between 9 am to 1.30 pm while private offices tend to close by 3 pm. Please note that resorts and hotels such as the likes of Amilla Maldives Resort and Residences will not be affected by Ramadan. If you are visiting during this festival, you will get the opportunity to sample cultural food served during this festival, especially for Iftar, an evening meal where devotees break their fast.
Another religious festival looked forward to and celebrated with great fervour is Eid-ul-Adha. This festival falls on the 10th day of the final month in the Islamic almanack, Zil-Hajj. The occasion is held to celebrate the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his beloved son to Allah. The festival is observed by engaging in morning prayers, exchanging gifts with friends and loved ones, and inviting neighbours and family to dine together. Interestingly, Maldivians add their unique touch to this festival with street carnivals, singing, dressing in colourful clothes and other cultural events in Maldives.
The island nation celebrates independence on the July 26th of every year. Independence day celebrations usually see parades organised by National Cadet Corps and National Security Services. School children too usually come together to perform as well. The Maldives used to be a British colony up until the year 1887 and was free from Colonial intervention after receiving the status of a British Protectorate. Highlights of the festival definitely are the dance performances and parades which should not be missed out on.
Also officially known as Quamee Dhuvasm, the National Day Maldives is observed to honour a local revolt which forced the occupying Portuguese to leave the land. National Day generally falls on the third month of the Islamic Calendar ( the 1st day ). During this occasion, one will be able to take in political speeches, numerous military parades, and flag-raising ceremonies held across the islands.
Celebrated on Eid after the day of Hajj, this festival has its significance derived from the association with Hajj, an Islamic pilgrimaged undertaken annually to the holy city of Mecca, This is a mandatory religious duty, that all Muslims around the world aspire to fulfil at least once in their lifetime. In many of the Maldivian islands, this festival is known as Bodu Eid.
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.
